Eden Mill Distillery rescued in accelerated administration sale after debt pressures intensify

Eden Mill Distillery has been sold out of administration in a rapid transaction that preserved all 42 jobs and stabilised a business that had been struggling under sector wide headwinds and project related debt. Kenny Craig and Kevin Mapstone of Begbies Traynor were appointed joint administrators of St Andrews Brewers on 18 November after the board determined that a restructuring could not be achieved outside of a formal process due to mounting liabilities tied to the delayed launch of Eden Mill’s new distillery and visitor centre.

The St Andrews based spirits producer, known for its gin and growing whisky portfolio, had invested heavily in a multi million pound redevelopment on the banks of the Eden Estuary. The site ultimately opened last month but did so roughly twelve months later than planned. That delay hit cash flow at a time when the global whisky market was cooling, export sales were softening and operating costs were rising. Administrators cited sector-wide pressures, including weaker consumer demand and higher input costs, as contributing factors that amplified the company’s liquidity shortfall.

With the new facility open but the balance sheet under strain, Begbies Traynor launched an accelerated marketing process immediately after appointment. Ruby Capital emerged as the successful bidder for the business and assets, acquiring Eden Mill for an undisclosed sum and taking on all operations, inventory and the newly commissioned visitor destination. The administrators noted that the transaction was designed to protect the workforce, avoid a break up of the brand and prevent any forced disposal of maturing spirit at distressed values.

Begbies Traynor emphasised that the sale achieves continuity for customers, suppliers and the broader St Andrews hospitality ecosystem. Ruby Capital has voiced its intention to grow the brand and position the new site as a flagship destination for gin and whisky enthusiasts.