Ad Gefrin Whisky Distillery Adds New Managing Director
The Wooler-based distillery and Anglo-Saxon museum, Ad Gefrin has appointed a new managing director in a planned expansion bid. The distillery which was launched less than a year ago, is bent on improving its whisky tourism and growing its whisky distribution. The appointment will allow two other directors to focus on new areas.
Dr Chris Ferguson and Ben Murphy will focus on their areas of expertise, the museum experience and distilling, as Andy Ross, formerly commercial director, takes on overall responsibility for the visitor experience and distillery.
Ad Gefrin Distillery Set to Expand Tourism and Spirits Market
With only a few months under its belt, the £16m venture is looking to build on its early success to expand in the national and international spirit and tourism markets. By 2025, the distillery will produce the first Northumbrian English Single Malt Whisky, becoming a pioneer of the spirit.
Eileen Ferguson, who co-founded Ad Gefrin with her husband, Alan, said: “From the outset, Andy has displayed an invaluable commercial understanding whilst fully understanding our brand, and commitment to family and community.
Andy joined Ad Gefrin in September 2023 with over 20 years of experience in the drinks and hospitality industry. He co-founded Fresh Element, which administrated six restaurants and the food, beverage, and events offered at BALTIC Gateshead until last year
“He has brought wisdom, enterprise, commitment to our values, and a quiet assurance that epitomizes the needs of the business moving forward.
“Having had a really successful launch, Alan and I are excited and confident that we are making the most of the exceptional expertise in our senior team and have the structure to drive forward from strength to strength.”
About Ad Grefrin
Ad Gefrin, which opened in Wooler earlier this year, adopts its name from a place today known as Yeavering. This used to be a seasonal royal settlement periodically visited by the rulers of Northumbria. The site was later abandoned but its remains were rediscovered after tell-tale crop marks were spotted in aerial photographs in 1949.