Loch Lomond Group has secured planning permission and commenced construction on a new distillery and visitor centre in Luss, Dumbartonshire.

The 5,362 sq.m development will repurpose the old Luss smokehouse and surrounding land on Church Road, creating a new distillery for Loch Lomond Whisky and Ben Lomond Gin, alongside a visitor centre, a premium food and drink offering, and a flagship retail space.

"This significant multi-million-pound investment in a new distillery and visitor experience marks another major milestone for The Loch Lomond Group," said Colin Matthews, Founder and CEO of Loch Lomond Group and Director of the Scotch Whisky Association. "However, it comes at a time when the UK government's ill-conceived tax hikes, broken promises of support, and unfair regulations are creating major obstacles for distilling in Scotland to remain competitive."


Matthews emphasised the need for the UK government to change course and support the Scottish spirits industry. "Scotland's spirits are sold to the world, and that should not be taken for granted by our government. It's time for real change and real action, not just empty words and broken promises."

The new distillery and visitor centre will offer guided tours, immersive brand experiences, tastings, and a premium retail space showcasing the full range of Loch Lomond Whiskies, Glen Scotia, and Littlemill, as well as Ben Lomond Gin products.

The project is expected to be completed in summer 2025 and is anticipated to create significant economic benefits for the local community.

This announcement follows a period of strong growth for the Loch Lomond Group, with Ben Lomond Gin recently named as one of the top five gins in the world at the 2024 San Francisco Spirits Competition.