Cooley Distillery, once a renowned Irish whiskey producer, experienced significant changes and transitions in recent years. Let’s delve into the details and uncover what happened to this iconic distillery.
Beam Inc.’s Acquisition
In December 2011, Beam Inc. made a groundbreaking announcement, revealing their plans to acquire Cooley Distillery for an impressive sum of approximately $95 million. This acquisition signaled a shift in Cooley’s trajectory, as it became a part of Beam Inc.’s ever-expanding portfolio of spirits.
Becoming a Beam Suntory Subsidiary
Following Beam Inc.’s acquisition of Cooley, the distillery took another transformative step in its journey. On April 30, 2014, Beam Inc. itself was purchased by Suntory Holdings, a renowned company based in Osaka, Japan. With this acquisition, Cooley Distillery officially became a subsidiary of Beam Suntory, solidifying its place within an international spirits powerhouse.
The Impact on Cooley Distillery
Under the ownership of Beam Suntory, Cooley Distillery underwent a series of changes aimed at leveraging its rich heritage and expansive expertise in whiskey production.
Expansion of Product Portfolios
With the new ownership, Cooley Distillery had the opportunity to expand its product portfolios, offering an even wider range of Irish whiskeys to the discerning consumer. This allowed whiskey lovers to explore a diverse array of flavors and styles, further enhancing Cooley’s reputation within the whiskey community.
Preservation of Craftsmanship and Heritage
Throughout these changes, Cooley Distillery remained committed to preserving its distinguished craftsmanship and rich heritage. The expertise and knowledge passed down through generations of distillers continued to shape the production process, ensuring the authentic Irish whiskey experience.
Increased Global Distribution
Thanks to the acquisition by Beam Suntory, Cooley Distillery gained access to an expanded global distribution network. This allowed their whiskey to reach new markets around the world, exposing a broader audience to the exceptional quality and flavors for which Cooley became known.
Investments in Marketing and Promotion
Under Beam Suntory’s ownership, Cooley Distillery received increased investments in marketing and promotion. This enabled the distillery to amplify its brand presence, launching captivating campaigns that showcased the allure and uniqueness of their whiskey offerings.
Collaborations and Innovations
Cooley Distillery, with the support of Beam Suntory, embarked on collaborations and innovations within the whiskey industry. By partnering with other renowned brands and experimenting with new maturation techniques, they pushed the boundaries of what Irish whiskey could achieve.
Recognition and Awards
The efforts of Cooley Distillery did not go unnoticed. Their commitment to quality and innovation resulted in numerous accolades and awards being bestowed upon their whiskey expressions. These achievements solidified Cooley’s position as a powerhouse in the Irish whiskey industry.
Looking Towards the Future
As Cooley Distillery continues its journey under the ownership of Beam Suntory, the future undoubtedly holds exciting possibilities. With a steadfast dedication to maintaining heritage, pursuing innovation, and providing exceptional whiskey experiences, Cooley is poised to further elevate Irish whiskey on the global stage.
A Bright Future Ahead
Despite the changes and transitions it has undergone, Cooley Distillery remains a beacon of tradition, craft, and innovation in the world of whiskey. Its acquisition by Beam Suntory has brought forth immense opportunities, allowing Cooley to thrive and flourish in an ever-evolving spirits landscape.
