St Austell Brewery and Thatchers agree 10-year deal
The two companies have been working in close partnership since 2002 and Thatchers will also continue to be a key drinks partner for publicans across St Austell’s 122-strong leased and tenanted estate.
Thatchers brands are also widely available to St Austell Brewery’s 3,000-plus freetrade customers across the West Country.
St Austell Brewery chief executive Kevin Georgel said: “We’re delighted be continuing our long-standing partnership with Thatchers by signing this new 10-year deal. It’s a fellow family-owned drinks company, which shares many of our values.”
Growing distribution
Georgel continued: “Working collaboratively with other businesses in our region, and building strong long-term relationships, is something that has always been important to us.
“It’s fantastic to continue supporting one another by growing Thatchers’ West Country distribution while bolstering our drinks portfolio and cider offer for pub guests and wholesale customers.”
Thatchers’ fourth-generation cider-maker Martin Thatcher said: “Working in partnership with St Austell Brewery just makes sense – we share our values, roots and commitment to giving customers a great experience.
“This 10-year deal, which may seem short in comparison to the combined 292 years of family expertise our companies have, is a testament to our shared commitment to collaboration and sustainability. We look forward to raising a glass in a St Austell pub to celebrate.”
Operates 160 sites
Thatcher’s cider has been made on Myrtle Farm in Somerset since 1904.
St Austell Brewery was founded by Walter Hicks in 1851. It remains an independent, family-owned business 172 years later. The company’s range of beers include Tribute pale ale, Proper Job IPA and korev lager.
The business owns more than 160 pubs, inns and hotels across the West Country – including managed houses and leased and tenanted sites. It also operates two breweries, in St Austell and Warmley, near Bath.
