Case Studies

Small-batch cocktail business has sights set on further growth

A Scottish drinks business has successfully launched and developed an e-commerce website after the business owner approached Business Gateway for support.

2nd May 2023

About the business

Founded by Elizabeth Mackirdy, Braw Liquor Club was born on the Isle of Bute during lockdown, when Elizabeth returned to her hometown after living in London. Offering hand-crafted, small-batch cocktails, the range consists of two pre-blended premium cocktails, each with a contemporary and Scottish twist, made with Scottish ingredients from land and sea.  

The help and advice I received from Business Gateway has been great. Their expertise really helped with some of the questions I had, especially around production, as I’m not from a drinks background.

How Business Gateway has helped

Through Business Gateway’s start-up services, Elizabeth accessed regular 1:1 support from a business adviser, as well as specific marketing advice on new product development, routes to market, business legislation and digital marketing. This support has bolstered Elizabeth’s confidence in her ability to run a business and she is now selling her cocktails from her website and through wholesale.   

Elizabeth’s cocktails have since received Gold and Silver awards at the 2022 Scottish Retail Food and Drink Awards, and she has her sights set on supplying further stockists this year with her premium cocktails.  

Elizabeth Mackirdy, Founder, Braw Liquor Club commented: “The help and advice I received from Business Gateway has been great. Their expertise really helped with some of the questions I had, especially around production, as I’m not from a drinks background.    

“Additionally, the access to market research has proved very valuable and my adviser Jen always made sure I was aware of any news or potential opportunities that would be of benefit to my business growth.” 

Support Provided

1:1 Business Advice/Support

Market Research Reports

DigitalBoost Support

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