The agreement will build upon a strategic partnership between the companies which dates back to the early 1990s.

Suntory has a long-term shareholding in The Macallan, the leading brand in Edrington’s portfolio and the most valuable Single Malt Scotch Whisky in the world.

Suntory Holdings has also been an important distributor of Edrington brands in several key international markets over the past four decades, including Japan, Germany, Canada and South Africa; and through joint ventures in the UK, Spain and Russia.

The agreement will provide an inflow of funds to Edrington’s principal shareholder, The Robertson Trust, which will allow it to give more to good causes across Scotland.

The Robertson Trust is the largest independent grant-making Trust in Scotland with the vision of a fair and compassionate Scotland where everyone is valued and able to flourish. It will also provide funds for Edrington’s employee share scheme.

Scott McCroskie, Edrington CEO, said: “Edrington has a successful long-standing strategic partnership with Suntory. We share a similar ethos and the same passion for craftsmanship, innovation and quality in our brands. We look forward to cementing and building this deep relationship over the coming years.”