EDINBURGH-based bottling business Young Spirits has been named as one of the UK’s 100 most loved companies to work for in a global awards initiative.
The company is the only Scottish winner of a 2025 Breakthrough Culture Award, which recognises forward-thinking firms that put their people first in the workplace.
Organised by Hyer, the awards team reviewed over 5,000 companies of all sizes and from different sectors to uncover the 100 top workplaces where people are thriving and feel empowered in their roles.
Young Spirits was highlighted for its positive and pioneering approach to nurturing its 40-strong team of employees.
The business hosts monthly sessions to brainstorm and celebrate new ideas, with a Dragon’s Den-style competition where all employees can pitch ideas for new products. Young Spirits also uses new technology to ensure employees are first to hear about company news, developments, workplace initiatives and seasonal events – direct to an app on their smartphone.
An Employee of the Month programme and annual awards ceremony recognises great work, while an employee rewards programme offers discounts and perks. Further initiatives include training of mental health first aiders; an app-based Employee Assistance Programme for staff and their families on topics such as stress, finance, health & wellbeing and childcare; and team building events including an annual company barbecue.
Young Spirits was founded in 2019 by entrepreneurs John Ferguson and Alex Harrison as a partner for global spirits brands, specialising in bottling services, new product development and all aspects of packaging and fulfilment.
The team has also developed its own stable of brands including Ferg & Harris single malt whiskies, Uhuru rum and whisky, and most recently Nips & Sips ready-to-drink flavoured vodka pouches.
Barbara Russell-Scott, MD of Young Spirits, said, “Our founders Alex and John started the company with a mission to do things differently for our clients, but also for staff, as their team grew from just the two of them to the 40-plus employees we have today. They want everyone who works here to share their passion, commitment and satisfaction as Young Spirits evolves, and our business is built with this ethos at its heart.
“We’re very proud to have this work recognised in the UK business community with this Breakthrough Culture Award.”
