Bristol Beer Factory ploughs £2m into new site

Bristol Beer Factory injects £2m into new site

Bristol Beer Factory (BBF) has invested a six-figure sum into a new brewery location to allow room for sustainable growth and innovation.

The new location is just 1km away from the brewers South Bristol site but provides “much-needed” space for “sustainable growth and innovation” in a more modern setting, the firm said.

BBF head of sales Tom Clermont said the move would give brewery “space to breathe”, aiding its ongoing commitment to being one of the “best, most sustainable businesses in Bristol and in the UK”.

Clermont continued: “By investing in state-of-the-art equipment and embracing modern practices, BBF aims to reduce its environmental footprint on a per litre basis, aligning with its ambitious goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. 

“Within the £2,000,000 spend there is a significant investment in state-of-the-art equipment that directly reduces carbon emissions.

“Some highlights include carbon capture storage, vapour heat recovery, and rainwater capture, reflecting Bristol Beer Factory's dedication to circular economy principles and self-sufficiency.”

In addition, the extra capacity at the new site will see BBF, which was founded in 2004, able to produce up to 30,000 hectolitres annually and create more job opportunities within the local community.

BBF managing director Sam Burrows added: “The brewery will maintain its commitment to crafting unique beers for independent pubs, supporting local venues, and contributing to community causes.”

Laine Pub Co reopens flagship site

Laine Pub Company has reopened its flagship site on Brighton’s seafront following a £350k refurbishment.

The revamped sea-facing terrace, adorned with rustic wooden tables, industrial chic accents, Glastonbury-style flags and mesmerising lighting, provides guests with panoramic views of the coastline.

In addition, the venue’s refreshed and unique “labyrinthine” set Tempest apart, with intimate cave booths, caverns and art and light installations that reverberate with the rhythm of the building.

A new coastal menu has also been crafted by Bonito, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients, while the bar’s events and cocktail offering has remained.

Tempest management partner Bec said: "The Tempest isn't just a venue; it's an experience.

"Our investment reflects our commitment to enriching the communities we serve by offering a space where art, music, and great food converge to create unforgettable moments."

Amber Taverns procures B&K site

Amber Taverns has secured a new site in Bedfordshire from Brewhouse & Kitchen (B&K).

Fleurets surveyors acted on behalf of the vendors to oversee the sale of the freehold Bedford pub, which is located within the town centre.  

Fleurets divisional director Elysia Wilson-Gunn said: “We are delighted to have successfully assisted Brewhouse & Kitchen in securing a sale and wish Amber Taverns the best of luck with their new location.”

B&K managing director Simon Bunn thanked Fleurets for their help in finding a new owner for the site and wished Amber Taverns success in their new location.  

Independent pubco takes on seventh site 

Independent pub group, Livelyhood, has announced the acquisition of the Bull Pub in Wanstead, London.

The brand said the procurement was in line with its growth plans for this year, with a focus on social spaces for eating and drinking at the front and entertainment areas with big screens for hosting sports, live music, quiz nights and other events at the back.

A former bank, the Bull boasts a rich history and has been a huge part of the local community since its inception as a pub ten year ago.

The Bull Pub’s 22 team members will also be retained by Livelyhood, which operates six sites across the capital, while plans to renovate the property in winter 2025 are underway.

Livelyhood founder Sarah Wall said: “We’re delighted that the Bull Pub is now part of Livelyhood Pub Group and can join us on our journey of growth for the year ahead.

“The Bull Pub already has an incredible team in place and prides itself as a real community, local pub which strongly aligns with our own values and expectations of what a stand-out pub should be.”

Punch acquires 24 pubs

Punch Pubs & Co has acquired the Milton 3 portfolio, adding 24 pubs to its 1,300 estate.

The pubs are located in Yorkshire and the north-east, including the Black Bull in Morpeth, the Cross Keys in Washington and the New Inn, Wetherby.

CEO Clive Chesser said: “We are delighted to have acquired these excellent pubs and we are excited about the future as we welcome them into the Punch family.

“I would especially like to thank Kamran Aziz and the Queensway Advisory team, who continue to provide their management services as the pubs and their teams transfer into the Punch business." Read more here​.

Kirkstall reopens former Tetley Brewery site 

The iconic Tetley Brewery has reopened to the public under the management of Kirkstall Brewery.

Kirkstall Brewery, which rescued Leeds-based craft business North Brewing Co from administration​​ in January, has taken over the lease of the former headquarters of Tetley Brewery while plans to refurbish the site are ongoing.

The Leeds-based beer brewer and operator of six of its own sites plus a taproom along with two partner pubs said it aims to create a “contemporary, fresh and friendly venue and events space that celebrates the rich history of beer making in Leeds and Yorkshire” under the moniker of The Tetley.

It will serve Kirkstall’s own beers and those from other local, modern and traditional craft and cask brewers, including Tetley, and will also operate a restaurant food menu.

Read more here​.

• Check out our previous property report ​​here​​​​​​

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