Meet Annabel Thomas: Founder of the UK’s First Net-Zero Whisky Distillery

In a world where only 18% of companies in the UK are led by women, it’s refreshing to see women like Annabel Thomas breaking barriers and making waves in their respective fields. Annabel is the founder of Nc’nean whisky distillery, the UK’s first net-zero whiskey distillery, and she is changing the game with her sustainable approach and female-led team.

Annabel’s journey from leaving her job as a strategy consultant in London to pursuing her dream of changing the way the world thinks about whisky is truly inspiring. It took her four years of hard work, fundraising, and building to create the Nc’nean distillery in the Highlands, and another three years to produce its first bottle. Despite facing skepticism and challenges along the way, Annabel persevered and made her vision a reality.

One of the key challenges Annabel faced was the struggle to raise funds for her distillery. She acknowledges that being a woman in a male-dominated industry may have made the fundraising process more difficult, as she often wondered if it would have taken as long if she were a man. The stereotypes and biases she encountered, such as being constantly asked if she even liked whisky because she was a woman, only fueled her determination to succeed.

Despite the obstacles, Annabel remained committed to her values of sustainability and female empowerment. Nc’nean distillery is powered solely by renewable energy, uses 100% recycled clear glass bottles, and replants everything it harvests. Annabel’s advice to other women looking to break into male-dominated fields is to use their differences to their advantage and create something unique. She believes that diversity of thought is essential for innovation and success.

Annabel’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and purpose. She has shown that with determination and a strong vision, women can overcome challenges and make a significant impact in any industry. As we celebrate women like Annabel who are bossing it in their fields, let’s continue to support and empower female entrepreneurs and leaders to create a more inclusive and diverse business landscape.