Emma Watson’s Renais Gin Brand Raises £5 Million to Expand Globally
Emma Watson, renowned for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, co-founded the luxury gin brand Renais Gin with her brother, Alex Watson. Launched in May 2023, Renais Gin recently secured nearly £5 million in funding, reflecting its growing success in the global spirits market. The brand has expanded into 11 countries and forged distribution agreements with 22 countries, making significant strides in the US market, particularly in California and New York.
Renais Gin draws inspiration from the Watson family’s background in the vineyard business. Their father, who operates Domaine Watson, a family vineyard in France, influenced their venture into the spirits industry. The brand’s growth and the recent fundraising will support its expansion plans, particularly in the US, and it aims to launch in France, Spain, Dubai, and Canada by 2025.
Alex Watson, the CEO, expressed excitement over the brand’s trajectory, highlighting the importance of connecting with consumers who prefer premium products. Renais Gin is capitalizing on the trend toward “premiumisation” in the gin category, catering to consumers who seek higher-quality, less frequent indulgence. The company is also focusing on content creation and community engagement to build its brand presence.
The funding round attracted industry experts and investors, including US-based InvestBev and Jean-Sebastien Robicquet of Maison Villevert. These investors bring valuable experience to Renais, helping it scale internationally and strengthen its position in the competitive gin market. Furthermore, the brand has added several high-level industry veterans to its board, including Jimmy Weir, former CFO of Lathwaites Group, and Andrew Morgan, ex-Diageo European Chief.
Renais Gin’s commitment to quality and sustainability, along with its premium positioning, has garnered attention in the spirits industry, positioning the brand for future global recognition. The Watson siblings’ personal connection to the world of wine and spirits, combined with strategic investments and expert guidance, has set Renais Gin on a path to continued success.
