Overview and key points
Learn how Partners& worked closely with Whisky Auctioneer to strengthen its insurance and risk management programme, from enhancing cyber protection to arranging bespoke transit and international cover.
Key takeaways
Enabling whisky retailers, distributors, auctioneers and distillers to protect high-value collections and global operations with:
- Tailored insurance for cyber, transit and international risks
- Risk management support for a growing global whisky business
- In-house claims support to help protect business continuity
Our client
Whisky Auctioneer is the market leading global platform for buying and selling rare and collectible whiskies, including single items exceeding £1million. Established in 2013, the business has grown from a small team into an international operation employing around 65 people.
David Rankin, Stewardship Director, has worked closely with the business since 2015 with MacDonald Group and as Partners& from 2022.
"Working with David Rankin and his team has been invaluable to our growth. From the early days of Whisky Auctioneer to becoming a global leader in rare whisky auctions, the team at Partners& has provided exceptional support and expertise. Their ability to respond to urgent needs—whether arranging cover for high-value bottles, pop-up events, or international transit—gives us complete confidence. This partnership is built on trust and a deep understanding of our business."
Challenge
As Whisky Auctioneer expanded, the range of risks the business was exposed to became increasingly complex. The company faced several challenges, including the need for robust protection against emerging digital and cyber threats, specialist transit cover for high-value shipments, and operational complications linked to Brexit that required international insurance solutions.
Support
Working closely with the team at Whisky Auctioneer and as part of the regular review process, David helped identify areas of their risk management programme that could be further enhanced.
David and the Partners& team implemented enhancements to their insurance cover across multiple areas, including:
- increased protection for digital and cyber risks
- bespoke goods in transit cover for shipments worth millions
- insurance provision for pop-up retail events.
When Whisky Auctioneer established a warehouse in Holland, Partners& supported with the arrangement of the required insurance cover to ensure continuity. The combination of expert advice and collaboration with specialist partners ensures that Whisky Auctioneer’s insurance needs are met as the business grows and faces emerging risks.
Perform
Our partnership with Whisky Auctioneer has delivered measurable and tangible results.
A major claim was managed efficiently, safeguarding business continuity and allowing Whisky Auctioneer to maintain operations with minimal disruption.
Goods in transit claims have also been resolved quickly, with our claims team securing fast settlement, demonstrating our commitment to standing shoulder to shoulder with our clients when claims happen.
Partners& has arranged seamless cover for high-value shipments and international operations, enabling Whisky Auctioneer to seek further growth opportunities without compromise. This proactive approach has strengthened resilience and continues to support expansion.
"Whisky Auctioneer’s journey highlights the importance of proactive risk management. By combining tailored insurance solutions with strategic advice, we have helped them navigate complex challenges while enabling their continued growth in a competitive market. Having worked with the client since 2015, it has been rewarding to see their success and play a part in supporting their ambitions."
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