New heritage centre operators vow to develop landmark tourist attraction

A major redevelopment of the Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre is on the cards, with news that global spirits giant William Grant & Sons Ltd is to take control of the Bury Quay facility. William Grant & Sons Ltd, which took over Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey last year, said it intended to turn the centre into a landmark tourist attraction for the region, which would ultimately attract up to 40,000 tourists annually. The redeveloped centre will be launched in time for the 2012 tourist season. And it will be subject of a global marketing campaign aimed at enthusiasts of Irish whiskey. It's understood that there will be no job losses as a result of the takeover and that an internal redevelopment of the centre is also planned. "This is an important step in our long-term vision for Tullamore Dew. It's the second largest selling Irish whiskey in the world, and is an export brand with a global profile. We want those that love Tullamore Dew to be able to come and see its true home, with a first class visitor experience that will deepen their engagement with the brand. We will build on the success of the Heritage Centre to date and create a key attraction for the region", said Tullamore Dew Global Brand Director Shane Hoyne, The new centre will include state-of-the-art facilities, a whiskey tour, interactive Tullamore Dew history and expert tasting sessions. The 104-year old building, originally the bonded warehouse for the distillery, has since 2000housed a heritage centre, run as a joint venture between C&C (then brand owners), Tullamore Town Council, Fáilte Ireland and various community groups. Shane Hoyne paid tribute to board and staff of the centre for their 'huge contribution' to the success of the centre to date.