Mark Anthony Brands, a Canadian drinks distribution group, through its Irish unit has invested €5.5m in Glendalough Distillery.

Details of the stake details have not been divulged by the two companies. Mark Anthony Brands International (MABI) is led by CEO Davin Nugent.

It purchased €3.5m worth of new shares, and another €2m worth of shares from existing shareholders.

"It’s great to have guys with their experience involved as we continue to grow the distillery over the coming years."

MABI produces a range of products, ranging from whiskey and poitin to gin.

It is currently constructing a distillery in Glendalough. This distillery is expected to open in 2017.

Glendalough Distillery director Brian Fagan was quoted by thespiritsbusiness.com as saying: “Myself and Barry have known Davin Nugent for a long time. We worked together in the past in previous roles within the drinks industry.

“Davin has followed our progress over the past few years as we set up Glendalough and grew the distillery. We stayed in touch and an opportunity arose earlier this year for MABI to become an investor in our business.

“We’re really looking forward to working closely with Davin and MABI. It’s great to have guys with their experience involved as we continue to grow the distillery over the coming years.”

Glendalough Distillery. was founded in 2011.

It has attracted several investors, including former Ireland rugby captain Brian O’Driscoll.