A North East gin distillery has 'made history' by exhibiting at the first dedicated bar and beverage trade show in the Middle East and North Africa regions.
WL Distillery showcased its creations at The Gulf Bar Show in Dubai, which served as the 'definitive meeting ground' for the bar and beverage community.
The event attracted more than 3,000 industry professionals, 115 exhibitors, and 42 speakers, creating a one-of-a-kind industry event in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Founder and managing director, Scott Wilson-Laing, said: "The trade mission has been very fruitful, and an immense opportunity to showcase our North East brand on such an exquisite global stage and in one of the most desirable cities in the world – Dubai.
"It was extra special to make history and to be one of the first exhibitors in the region.
"The brand and products were very well received and experiences like this open up so many opportunities for WL Distillery."
With a range of flavours, WL Distillery is an established contender in the UK gin market.
The County Durham-based distillery's portfolio has grown over the years to include six flavours, limited edition festive and Valentine ranges, and the popular 1st Edition and Wilson's Gin Club 'Watermelon and Liquorice'.
HM Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Pakistan, Sarah Mooney, said: "There is a growing appetite for innovative, premium British spirits in the UAE market, so it was wonderful to see WL Distillery showcasing their exceptional products at The Gulf Bar Show.
"The distillery's commitment to quality and its celebration of the North of England’s rich natural ingredients represents the very best of UK craftsmanship and provenance."
The Dubai trade mission follows a recent visit to India where WL Distillery explored opportunities in Mumbai and New Delhi.
The distillery also showcased its award-winning gin range at The Vault Festival as part of the UK Craft Pavilion.
Mr Wilson-Laing said: "International expansion is most definitely in our sights and the recent visits to India and the UAE give us a great flavour of the opportunities that are available on the global stage.
"The networks and connections formed have been priceless."
WL Distillery's accolades include gold at The Gin Masters, a place in the London Spirits Top 100 spirits, and features in Vogue’s 'Hot List' and GQ’s 'Cocktail Club'.
The distillery has also been named Gin Distillery of the Year in the Corporate Live Wire Innovation & Excellence Awards 2024 and won the Bronze Design Award at the World Gin Awards.
The distillery's inspiration comes from its Northern roots, ensuring a fresh and classic authentic gin experience for customers.
Ingredients take centre stage at WL Distillery and each bottle is infused with nature using handpicked and measured botanicals to ensure the freshest, most authentic taste.
