Award-winning Northern Irish craft distillery, Copeland Distillery, has marked one year since it landed in the World Duty Free store at Belfast City Airport.

Since its launch, Copeland Distillery has expanded its available range with passengers, regardless of their destination, now able to purchase seven products including the recently introduced Rhuberry Gin, Overproof Rum and Irish Vodka.

Passengers also have the exclusive opportunity to purchase Merchant’s Quay Whiskey, of which only 3000 bottles have been made.

Commenting on its popularity, Michael Jackson, Head of Commercial at Belfast City Airport, said:

“Copeland Distillery’s range of high-quality, locally produced spirits have been extremely popular with passengers at Belfast City Airport who want to take a taste of Northern Ireland with them when they travel or return home.

“We have seen a large demand for Northern Irish products and are pleased to have been able to meet this while supporting businesses within our community and enhancing the range of options available.

“Copeland Distillery’s success is testament to its exceptional craftsmanship and we look forward to seeing its continued growth in the future.”

Inspired by the historic harbour in Donaghadee, County Down, Copeland Distillery became the second bestselling brand in World Duty Free within weeks of its arrival at Belfast City Airport in 2023.

Speaking on behalf of Avolta, Aisha Dad, Category Manager for Liquor in the UK added:

“Our customers want to experience what makes Northern Ireland special when they are shopping with us and are keen to purchase locally produced products.

“The Copeland Distillery’s impressive range delivers a fantastic sense of place with its iconic distillery located only 30 minutes away from the airport.

“The range represents the very best in local craftsmanship and we’re really delighted with the performance of the range over the past year.”

Tasting sessions of The Copeland Distillery’s products are held at Belfast City Airport’s World Duty Free each Friday and Sunday afternoon, giving passengers the opportunity to ‘try before they buy’ and learn more about The Copeland Distillery’s extensive distilling process.

Gareth Irvine, Founder of The Copeland Distillery, said:

“World Duty Free at Belfast City Airport is a significant customer for us, giving passengers travelling from the heart of Belfast to destinations across the world a chance to take a piece of Northern Ireland on their travels.

“There is a high level of footfall at Belfast City Airport from both business and leisure passengers, which presents us with new markets and opportunities for growth, and we’re proud that those travelling through are enjoying our products.

“Our performance so far as been exceptional, and we look forward to continuing to work with the team at World Duty Free and Belfast City Airport to further build on this success.”