The Macallan has opened a new boutique in London airport Heathrow's Terminal 5, in partnership with Avolta and Heathrow. The boutique is designed around the distillery's "experiential retail concept" Nurtured by Nature.
Designed in collaboration with architect Jamie Fobert, the space is a "multisensorial experience" which explores the Macallan's connection to nature. Elements from Macallan's distillery have influenced details within the boutique: a "wave-like" wall inspired by the distillery's roof, a copper wall reflecting its stills, and an Albariza stone wall as a nod to Jerez, the source of the sherry that seasons Macallan's casks.
The boutique also plays host to multiple artistic collaborations, including The Botanic Series, a triptych of pieces by Juli Manara. The triptych is a "whimsical composition" of images of the woods and wildlife that surround the Macallan Estate. Is it complemented by a bespoke soundscape created by Mimi Xu Studio named Connecting Our Home to the World, which uses natural sounds recorded at the estate.
The Macallan's Prestige range will be available at the boutique, including rare releases such as TIME:SPACE Mastery, the Red Collection, and selected Fine & Rare expressions.
Jeremy Speirs, Edrington regional managing director, global travel retail, commented: “Opening our new boutique at Heathrow Terminal 5 marks a major milestone for the Macallan, reinforcing our global growth ambitions and commitment to elevating the retail experience in ultra-premium spirits.
He continued: “We are proud to offer an immersive and memorable experience, enabling travellers to creatively connect deeply with the unique spirit and story of the Macallan in a space which offers a strong emotional link to the brand’s home in Speyside.”
Last year, Heathrow's Terminal 5 saw another whisky brand join its offering, when Islay distillery Bowmore opened its first boutique in travel retail.