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Emma Watson’s gin label to expand after £4.95 million investment
Actor Emma Watson’s luxury gin Renais has raised £4.95 million to fund the brand’s international expansion.
After closing out a successful 2024 for their luxury gin brand Renais, English actress and activist Emma Watson, best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter franchise, and her brother, Alex Watson, have announced they have raised an additional £4.95 million.
US expansion
The new funds mark a key milestone in the brand’s growth as it targets international expansion. Renais is currently present in 11 countries, and distribution has been agreed for 22 more.
In 2025, Renais will launch in France, Spain, Dubai, and Canada, and expansion across the US will be absolutely key. The brand is focusing on distribution to new US states, with marketing campaigns designed to bring Renais to a broader American audience.
CEO and co-founder Alex Watson said: “The raise will support expansion in the US off the back of our successful California and New York launch.”
The gin, which costs £48 per 70cl bottle, can be bought in on-trade venues, including Soho House, Gaucho, Scarfes Bar at The Rosewood Hotel, and Kwant.
Brand investors
The announcement of Renais’ expansion plans follows the bolstering of its board with industry veterans such as Jimmy Weir, the former Laithwaites Group CFO; Andrew Morgan, the former Diageo European chief; and Alex Staartjes, former global marketing director at Pernod Ricard.
Renais has also obtained investments from US-based InvestBev, and Jean-Sebastien Robicquet of Maison Villevert.
Brian Rosen, a general partner at InvestBev, said: “We are thrilled to support Renais Gin in its journey to become a globally recognised brand. The premium gin category continues to demonstrate remarkable potential, and Renais Gin’s quality and sustainability credentials align perfectly with our strategic investment focus. Our capital — coupled with our deep industry expertise and network – will amplify Renais Gin’s ability to reach new consumers and markets.”
Ode to Chablis
Organic Chablis grapes are an integral ingredient in Renais Gin. The Watson family has been making wine in the French region for more than 30 years, and locally sourced grapes are handpicked and ‘upcycled’ following pressing to be used in the gin.
The Watsons have positioned Renais within the premium gin market, with Alex Watson confirming: “Consumers’ preference for premiumisation and a desire to drink less, but better, continues to grow.”
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