UK-based gin brand Pinkster has raised £1.1m ($1.3m) in a private financing round that will be used to enhance the sale of its raspberry-infused gin.

Owned by Ginmeister, the Pinkster brand was launched in 2013.

The fund will be used to further improve production and extend brand marketing, while increasing its sales reach.

Pinkster managing director Stephen Marsh said: “This successful fundraise is a fitting close to a momentous year. The fact that we were able to raise a seven-figure sum through friends and family, speaks volumes about the robustness of the business model, the strength of the product, and the opportunities ahead.

“The fact that we were able to raise a seven-figure sum through friends and family, speaks volumes about the robustness of the business model.”

“Backers include our directors, assorted employees, existing investors, and personal connections. All have bought into the fact that we’re a pink gin pioneer with a distinctly fruity USP.”

In 2016, the company raised £1m in a funding round.

Pinkster gin is currently available at around 5,000 venues across the UK in the on-trade including Azzuri Group, Marco Pierre Restaurants, Rick Stein’s eateries, Charles Wells, Marston’s and St Austell Brewery.

It is also available at off-trade and the stockists include Majestic Wine, Marks and Spencer, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges.

According to Marsh, the inebriated raspberries left over from producing Pinkster are used in natural by-products, Boozy Berries, Gin Jam and Pinkster Royale.

In August this year, Pinkster invested in an update to its pink gin packaging.