Innis & Gunn wants a foothold in the lucrative US beer market

The Edinburgh-based independent brewer, Innis & Gunn, has set up a new company to lead its drive into the US.

The new firm will distribute and market the brewer's range in America.

Currently, the US accounts for 3% of Innis & Gunn's sales, and the company said the potential in America was "enormous".

Innis & Gunn is the best selling British bottled beer in Canada and the brewer said response from US consumers to date had been extremely positive.

Dan DeLuca from International Beverage has been appointed as the the managing director of Innis & Gunn USA.

'Perfect man'

Dougal Sharp, managing director of Innis & Gunn Brewing Company, said: "Gaining a strong foothold in the US is an integral part of our growth strategy as we look to write the next chapter in Innis & Gunn's success story.

"The market conditions are perfect, the product is perfect and now we have the perfect man in the job to lead the new set-up. Dan's track record speaks for itself and we're thrilled to have him as part of the team."

The "craft" or speciality category makes up 16% of US beer sales and the Edinburgh brewer said it was keen to be a part of that growing market.

Innis & Gunn was set up in 2003 as a joint venture with the drinks firm, William Grant.

In 2008 there was a management buy-out and the business is now under family ownership.