Northern Monk expands brewing capacity by 20%

The Leeds-based brewer has announced its brewing capacity would increase by 20%, equivalent to 8,000 hectolitres or 1.4m pints of beer per year, following the £500k investment into new equipment.

Northern Monk co-founder Russell Bisset said: “After ten years of brewing, we’re entering a really exciting new era for Northern Monk.

Really positive period

“The increase in capacity represents a really positive period for us as we continue to attract new customers enjoying our beers either in their local or by picking up a few cans from the supermarkets as well as our innovative special releases in independent bottle shops, which are enjoyed by beer lovers who have followed our journey since the start.”

Last year, Northern Monk, which is known for producing beers such as Faith and Northern Star, brewed around 7m pints at their two brewing sites on Sydenham Road in Holbeck, and their original home, The Old Flax Store, just south of Leeds city centre.

Though Bisset, who Co-founded the brewery alongside head brewer Brian Dickson in 2013, added the firm’s growth meant Northern Monk were “pushing the limit” of what the current site could handle.

In November last year, Northern Monk discontinued two of its seasonal products​, Rocket Lolly and Wasted Pale Ale, after complaints about the beers appealing to under 18’s and not communicating their alcoholic nature with clarity were upheld by the Portman Group.

Significant investment

He continued: “This felt like the right time to make a significant investment in our facilities.

“It’s been a challenging few years for the industry as a whole with Covid, rising bills, political uncertainty and supply challenges acutely felt by the sector.

“We’re deeply grateful to our consumers and customers for their continued support which has allowed us to continue to grow as a company.”