Gordon & MacPhail director named in Walpole Power List

A director at whisky maker Gordon & MacPhail has been named as one of the 50 most influential people in the British luxury market.

Stephen Rankin, the company's director of prestige and a fourth-generation member of the owning family, has been included in the 2020 Power List from Walpole, the official luxury sector body. The list recognises individuals and brands who, despite 2020's challenges, have continued to deliver success in the luxury sector. 

Walpole acknowledged Stephen's role in bringing Gordon & MacPhail's history, heritage and whiskies to life in entertaining ways, as well as his contribution to the company's growth and to "the release of some of the rarest and most iconic whiskies in the world".

The announcement follows Gordon & MacPhail's release of four extremely rare whiskies to commemorate its 125th anniversary, and the launch of a film serialisation charting the Elgin-based company's history. The five-part series features more than 20 contributors including fellow Walpole Power List honourees Simon Cotton, CEO of Johnstons of Elgin, Conor O'Leary, managing director of Gleneagles, and Knut Wylde, general manager of The Berkeley Hotel.

Stephen Rankin said: "It's an honour to be named one of the country's most influential people in luxury. I'm in great company among some of the industry's greatest - some of whom I'm proud to call friends.

"It's particularly poignant to be recognised in such an important year for Gordon & MacPhail, as we celebrate more than a century in whisky creation. Despite challenging circumstances, the whole team and I are proud to continue our pursuit of whisky perfection for people to enjoy all over the world."

21 November 2020 - Bethany Whymark