16th July 2026
One of Caithness's newest success stories is proving that location is no barrier to reaching customers around the world.
8 Doors Distillery in John O'Groats, Scotland's most northerly mainland whisky distillery, is expanding into international markets with support from Scottish Enterprise and Team Scotland, demonstrating how businesses from the far north can compete on the global stage.
Founded by local husband-and-wife team Kerry and Derek Campbell, the distillery has quickly built a reputation for producing premium spirits inspired by the history and heritage of John O'Groats. Since opening in 2022, the business has attracted visitors from across the UK and overseas while developing exports that are helping to raise the profile of Caithness internationally.
From John O'Groats to the World
Scottish Enterprise has highlighted 8 Doors Distillery as an example of how Scottish businesses can grow internationally.
The company has already established exports to Japan, Germany and Singapore, with overseas demand continuing to grow. Its products have also found prestigious outlets, including Edinburgh Castle, helping to introduce international visitors to a whisky with genuine Highland roots.
Kerry Campbell recently shared the company's experiences at Scottish Enterprise's Unlocking Growth: Going Global event, encouraging more Scottish businesses—particularly women-led enterprises—to consider exporting as part of their growth strategy.
Support to Reach New Markets
Breaking into overseas markets is rarely straightforward for smaller businesses.
Scottish Enterprise has worked with the company by providing advice, market knowledge and support to help identify export opportunities and build international relationships.
That support is helping businesses such as 8 Doors Distillery compete with much larger brands while maintaining their distinctive local identity.
Good News for the Local Economy
Success stories like this bring benefits well beyond the distillery itself.
Growing exports can create demand for:
Local employment.
Tourism and visitor experiences.
Haulage and logistics.
Packaging and design services.
Hospitality businesses.
Local suppliers.
Every bottle sold overseas helps promote both the distillery and Caithness as a destination for visitors interested in Scotland's food and drink heritage.
Building Caithness's Reputation
The story of 8 Doors Distillery shows that businesses based in rural Scotland can compete internationally by combining quality products with a strong local story.
John O'Groats is already recognised worldwide as one end of Britain's famous Land's End to John O'Groats route. The distillery has built its brand around local history, taking its name from the legend of Jan de Groot and the eight-door house that gave the village its name.
That blend of heritage, craftsmanship and innovation is proving attractive to overseas customers looking for authentic Scottish products.
Looking Ahead
As the UK continues to seek new export opportunities around the world, businesses such as 8 Doors Distillery demonstrate that some of Scotland's biggest success stories can begin in its smallest communities.
For Caithness, it is another reminder that the county has products capable of competing on the world stage. From whisky and seafood to engineering expertise and tourism, local businesses continue to show that being located at the very north of mainland Britain is no obstacle to international success.
Readers who would like to learn more about the company's export journey can read Scottish Enterprise's feature article on 8 Doors Distillery and visit the distillery's own website for further information.
Read The Scottish Enterprise Article HERE
8 Doors Distillery