A Family Legacy Since 1762
Historia JJ begins not with a single brand, but with two families whose shared passion for distilling helped shape generations of British spirits.
TWO FAMILIES. ONE HERITAGE.
The story starts in 1762 when T. Greenall founded the family's brewery in St Helens. Alongside brewing, the family entered the world of distilling, becoming one of the earliest families connected with the spirits industry in Cheshire.
Over time, the Greenall and Whitley families became united through marriage and business, creating a legacy that continues today under the JJ Family Distillers name.
THE MAN BEHIND THE NAME
John James (J.J.) Whitley represents one of the most important figures in the family's history.
Over years he played a key role in the company's development and helped strengthen the family's reputation for producing exceptional spirits.
Today, his name continues to inspire the JJ’s brand portfolio.
THE MODERN ERA
In 1978, John Edward Halewood founded Halewood International, later known as Halewood Artisanal Spirits.
Building on the family's rich heritage, the company introduced a number of successful premium spirit brands, including:
- JJ Artisanal Vodka
- JJ Gin
- Whitley Neill Gin
This marked the beginning of a new era for the family's distilling tradition.
INSPIRED BY TRADITION
In 2015, Halewood Artisanal Spirits launched the JJ Whitley brand as a modern collection of premium spirits inspired by centuries of British distilling heritage.
The range introduced JJ Artisanal Vodka and JJ Vodka while honouring the legacy of John James Whitley.
(Not to be confused with Whitley Neill Gin, which was launched in 2005.)
FROM JJ WHITLEY TO JJ
In 2023, the brand adopted a refreshed identity under the simplified name "JJ".
The redesigned packaging retained signature embossed details and references to the family's distilling heritage while introducing a cleaner, more contemporary look that reflects the brand's future.
A NEW CHAPTER CONTINUES
In 2026, United Beverages Group acquired the rights to the JJ brand, opening the next chapter in the story of JJ Family Distillers while continuing a family legacy that began more than 260 years ago.