Isle Of Wight’s Mermaid Gin Announces Major US Expansion Partnership

Isle of Wight-based Mermaid Gin has announced a major new partnership to support its next phase of growth in the United States, while confirming the Island will remain the heart of the business.

Founded a decade ago at the Isle of Wight Distillery, Mermaid Gin has secured backing from experienced global drinks industry leaders to expand its US distribution and build its presence in the premium spirits market.

The brand is already sold in 52 countries worldwide.

As part of the partnership, industry veteran Jim Clerkin joins as Chief Executive Officer to lead US growth, while Pierrick Bouquet becomes Chief Operating Officer for the US market.

The investment is led by Will Ward of Fourward Ventures, who joins the board.

Crucially, co-founders Xavier Baker and Conrad Gauntlett will remain fully involved in the business and based on the Isle of Wight.

Xavier will continue as Managing Director for the UK and Europe, with Conrad as COO for the same regions.

The company has confirmed that distillation, bottling and a new visitor centre will remain on the Isle of Wight, with plans to bring operations under one roof in the near future.

Mermaid Gin was founded in 2015 and is known for its strong environmental focus.

The distillery is B Corp certified, produces its spirits plastic-free, and supports seagrass meadow restoration projects locally and overseas. Its signature botanical is rock samphire, foraged from the Island’s shoreline.

Co-founder Xavier Baker said the move would allow the brand to grow internationally without losing its Island identity:

“Mermaid was born on the Isle of Wight to reflect the place we call home.

"This partnership lets us grow in the US while staying true to our roots, our quality and our responsibility to the environment.”

Mermaid Gin’s US expansion will be supported by a new national distribution deal with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.