Rooted in Ayr and shaped by a strong sense of place, Robbie’s Whisky Merchants is more than a shop; it’s a reflection of the town and the people around it. With a focus on independence, community, and creating a space that feels genuinely welcoming, Robbie’s mirrors many of the values that matter to Corum.
In working with local businesses, Corum looks to partner with those who understand the meaning of home, not just as a physical space, but as something built through connection, care, and belonging. Robbie’s Whisky Merchants embodies that idea, championing the history and heritage of Ayrshire while helping to shape a future where local independent businesses can thrive.
Bruce Patterson spoke to Robbie about community, Burns, Ayrshire, and what “home” really means.
Can you tell us the story behind Robbie’s Whisky Merchants, how the shop began and how it has evolved in Ayr?
The business has its roots in 1984 and has always been family owned and fiercely independent. My working life has been closely tied to the licensed trade from the very beginning, driven by a deep and lasting love of whisky. Over the years, the shop has evolved alongside the town, but its core values, independence, expertise and passion have remained unchanged.
Community feels central to Robbie’s Whisky Merchants. How important is that connection to the town, and how does it shape your day to day life in Ayr?
Community is everything. My family has lived in Ayr since the 1850s and has always owned and operated its own businesses. Continuing that tradition means being present every day, running the shop, speaking with customers, and contributing to the life of the town. It’s fair to say I’m one of Ayr’s more recognisable faces, and I take pride in that connection.
Independent whisky shops often play a role beyond retail. How do you see merchants like Robbie’s contributing to the social fabric of towns such as Ayr?
Passion, determination and a genuine depth of knowledge are essential. At Robbie’s, we go beyond selling whisky; we create experiences. We run our own whisky club and host an annual Whisky Festival in Ayr, which attracts visitors from across the UK and brings real energy and attention to the town.
How does being rooted in Ayr influence the way you curate your whisky selection and the stories you choose to tell through it?
Being based here makes supporting local distilleries a natural priority. I’m passionate about championing nearby producers and acting as an ambassador for their whisky, sharing not just the bottles but the stories behind them.
The notion of “home” is closely tied to place and identity. What does home mean to Robbie’s Whisky Merchants?
Home is Ayr. I’ve always been happy to stay here, marrying a local girl and raising our two children in the town. I’m incredibly proud of my hometown and do everything I can to promote it, whether I’m away on business or travelling for pleasure.
Whisky is often associated with comfort, ritual, and a sense of connection. How does that sense of warmth and familiarity feed into your idea of home, both personally and through the shop?
Whisky is best enjoyed in the company of family and friends, while reminiscing, telling stories, and sharing moments. It’s also my go-to celebratory toast.
Slàinte!