It has been revealed with the current trading challenges, the Ilkley Brewery and its beers were at risk of disappearing.
The craft brewer said it had entered an administration process managed by turnaround specialist Leonard Curtis.
Ilkley Brewery will remain a standalone business, but part of the strategy for the future is to forge and develop partnerships with other independent regional brewers with a shared vision.
This new investment will ensure brewing continues at the Ilkley riverside site, while being distributed across the UK as well as exported across Europe.
Investment in brewing facilities
A fresh injection of capital will include investment in the brewing facilities as well as in sales and marketing activities. The Ilkley brand, including flagship beer Mary Jane, will retain production in Ilkley and be distributed across the UK as well as exported across Europe.
The company said the deal had “preserved” 11 jobs, including the existing management team headed by Luke Raven and Jonny Moore, who will stay on to ensure continuity of service and high standards.
The local taproom, the Ilkley Tap remains unaffected.
Raven said: “The past 12 months have been extremely challenging and despite great beers and wide recognition, there was a risk that Ilkley Brewery beers could disappear. I am delighted that Graham has been able to step in and ensure not only continuity but also look ahead to grow the business and build on the excellent work that the brewing and management team have done in the past.”
Strong demand
He added: “There remains strong demand for our beers, but the challenges that have beset so many small brewers in recent years were making operations unsustainable.”
Smith said he believed alliances between regional independent brewers offer a way forward for the sector.
He said: “Now is the time for small, independent brewers to stand up and join forces to raise the profile of hand-crafted beer. Now more than ever, there is an opportunity to tap into consumer’s desire to drink imaginative, creative and high-quality beers – beers brewed by hand, by local people, where they can be sure of authenticity and be part of the story.”
According to The Society of Independent Brewers & Associates (SIBA) data, more than 100 independent breweries closed in 2024.
