Scotland’s Broughton Ales is accelerating its international growth, tapping into support offered by the Department for Business, Innovation, Science, and Trade (BIST).
Founded in 1979, the business has transformed its international ambitions into commercial success. Its flagship Old Jock Scotch Ale is now enjoyed by consumers across France, Sweden, Italy, Germany, and China.
“Building an export business doesn’t happen by chance,” said company director David McGowan. “Like many small businesses, we’ve faced our share of challenges, from securing investment and managing cashflow, to navigating uncertain trading conditions.
“What BIST has provided is far more than advice; it’s opened doors that would have otherwise taken years to access. The introductions, market insight, and practical support have given us the confidence and connections to grow internationally and compete in international markets.”
Broughton Ales has identified New Zealand and Canada — two countries whose imports of UK food and drink increased in 2024 and 2025 — along with India as priority markets for further expansion. Following a series of introductions and meetings with prospective distributors, facilitated by BIST, the company is on course to begin trading in New Zealand later this year.
The UK, New Zealand, and Canada, along with nine other economies, are members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). This is a free trade agreement that aims to reduce or eliminate tariffs on the vast majority of goods traded between member countries, including beer.
When Broughton Ales starts exporting to New Zealand it will benefit from 0% tariffs under CPTPP. Due to the UK’s new trade deal with India, which came into force in July, the company will also benefit from reduced export tariffs. The 110% levy on beer in India will taper to 70% over the next 10 years, with the first cut (to 97.4%) having already been made.
Following Canada’s recent ratification of the UK’s accession to the agreement, the company will also benefit from 0% tariffs on exports to the North American country when CPTPP comes into force on 1st September.
McGowan added: “Scotland has a fantastic reputation for quality and craftsmanship, and we’re proud to be carrying that reputation overseas. We have a saying: you’ve tried Scottish whisky, why not try a Scottish beer? Every new market represents an opportunity to tell the Broughton story to a new audience. We’re no longer just thinking about exporting; we’re actively building a sustainable international business.”
Reflecting on how other small and medium-sized businesses can grow, David emphasised the importance of understanding where their strengths are. “As a smaller business, we are often competing against local brewers and global. Our strategy is recognising opportunities that larger organisations may overlook. What seems too small for a multinational can be exactly the right opportunity for a challenger brand.
“My advice to other SMEs is to stay focused, stay adaptable, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. The businesses that succeed are often the ones that remain resourceful, learn quickly, and keep moving forward when others would give up.”
