Vermouth maker crowdfunds £100k for expansion into cans
It now plans to raise an additional £50,000 until its fundraising campaign closes on 8 October 2019.
The money will help upgrade facilities at its site in south-London, to enable an increase in production capacity as well as support product development.
The company intends to produce a range of accessible ‘everyday’ vermouths to encourage more drinkers into the category and a range of canned cocktails.
Rob Berry, founder, spoke of his excitement about the support the Crowdcube campaign had received so far.
He said: “We have been overwhelmed by the response to our crowdfunding campaign.
“Sourcing opinion from our supporters has always been key to our development process through beta testing, and so turning to our fans to help us reach the next stage of our journey seemed the obvious choice.
“We’re delighted to welcome new members into our family.
"The aperitif category is undergoing a renaissance due in part to the spritz effect and so now is the perfect time for us to expand our production and offering.”
Flourishing category
The brand produces artisan amaro, vermouth and fernet drinks and is stocked at bars including The Connaught, Claridge’s and Hand and Flowers.
Joe Schofield, creative director and a recent recruit to the brand said new products would invigorate the cocktails category.
He said: “I have been a great fan of the Asterley Bros brand since they launched their Dispense Amaro in 2017, and I have always enjoyed utilising their handcrafted liquids in cocktails and other mixed drinks.
“Breathing new life into the category, they are making exceptional products that are popular with bartenders and consumers alike.
“This is a particularly exciting time for the flourishing category and I’m delighted to join the team as creative director to be part of the next stage of the brand’s growth.”
