The historic firm, founded in 1867, now supplies customers from Mexico to China. It continues to create bespoke copper stills for distilleries across the globe, as well as supplying stills and distilling equipment throughout Scotland.

Its craftsmanship is pivotal in shaping the unique flavours of whiskies and other spirits, with recent collaborations showcasing an ability to blend tradition with innovation.

Robert Goudie, Production Manager at McMillan Coppersmiths, said: “Creating the right spirit involves many factors, including the copper stills we design and hand-make.

“As whisky enthusiasts know, the shape and size of the still are considered to influence the flavour of the whisky produced by each distillery.

“Our role is to customise a design that fits perfectly with the spirit they aim to produce, either by recreating and matching their existing shapes, or for newer entrants, drawing inspiration from others combined with customisation to make a strong impact on the aesthetics of the still house.

“We are now world leaders in the hand crafting of whisky and gin stills, rum stills and worm tubs.”

McMillan was awarded Manufacturer of the Year, and craft apprentice Jakub Spiewak received the award for Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year at the Made in Scotland Awards in 2023.

Rob Buxton, CEO at Briggs of Burton, said: “Over the last three years we have made a huge investment in McMillan Coppersmiths.

“This includes building the next generation of coppersmiths through apprenticeships programmes, recruiting and upskilling our team from within, and supporting the team through better welfare facilities and employment contracts.

“We have also made a big investment in supporting the team with the development of a health and safety culture.”