Manchester drinks company Ten Locks launches with spirits focus

A new Manchester-based drinks company is aiming to make a splash in the UK spirits market.

Ten Locks, which officially launched in August, aims to curate a portfolio of arouond 20 premium drinks brands for the on and off-trade. Brands already welcomed on board include Nusa Cana Rum, Applewood Gin and West Cork Irish Whiskey.

The company's name pays homage to the location of its sister company, Kingsland Drinks, which is based on the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal.

Ten Locks aims to fill its portfolio with innovative, "purpose-led" brands which share its ethical and sustainable ethos. For example, Nusa Cana makes its Indonesian-inspired rums from recycled sugar cane pulp; Australia's Applewood Gin uses only sustainably farmed botanicals; and West Cork Irish Whiskey is credited with creating one of the fastest stills in the world with its "Rocket".

Becky Davies, head of Ten Locks, said: "Through these first spirits, the portfolio is starting to speak for itself - brands of quality, distinction and purpose. They bring new tastes, fresh perspectives and a true sense of excitement to the UK drinks industry. With their clear propositions we know each brand has a commercially relevant place in the market and will quench the thirst of consumers seeking brands that demonstrate authenticity, credibility and quality, while taking measures to ensure and improve elements of sustainability and ethical practices."

Davies adds: "Much like the expertise, dedication to innovation and determination required to build the Manchester Ship Canal, we're moving forward with energy, pace and a desire to create something unrivalled among our competitor set."

Ten Locks will continue to develop its portfolio over the coming months with agency brands and a range of new and emerging brands. The portfolio will be available to the on and off-trade from October.

28 September 2020 - Bethany Whymark