Suntory Global Spirits has confirmed that it is merging the production teams at its Laphroaig and Bowmore distilleries on Islay.

The announcement follows the Scotch Whisky Association releasing figures for 2025 that show global exports of Scotch Whisky falling by -0.6% in value and by -4.3% in volume, as the industry navigates significant challenges across multiple markets.  

Data from restructuring firm BTG has also found one in five Scottish distilleries are facing financial distress.

Suntory said the decision was a responsible, forward‑looking adjustment to balance distillation with maturing inventory and protect the long‑term health of the brands.

Head of Distilling and Environment Alistair Longwell said: “Bowmore and Laphroaig are iconic Scotch whisky brands with exceptional heritage and craft, and they are long-term priorities for Suntory Global Spirits.

“As part of our commitment to producing whisky of the highest quality in a sustainable and efficient way, we are making operational adjustments on Islay to align production with long‑term demand.

“Distillation continues at both distilleries, and we remain fully committed to Islay, our people, and the communities that have supported these whiskies for generations.”

While there are no compulsory redundancies, the company has opened a voluntary redundancy program for affected staff.

Suntory confirmed that both distillery visitor centres will remain open and a “strong capital investment program” is planned at both distilleries over the next three years, as part of a long‑term confidence in the brands and in Islay.

Last month Diageo announced it would close the visitor centre at Clynelish distillery in Brora, while Brown Forman cut a number of jobs at Glenglassaugh last year as it moved to a shared production model with BenRiach.