Following a strategic review of its brewing operations, the Brighton-based company has announced a deal to licence production of its beer portfolio with the Keystone Brewing Group.
Laine’s managing director Russ Danks said: “After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to review where and how the Laine beer portfolio is produced.
“This allows us to get ahead of changes in the market and partner with a group that can help us really supercharge the brand.”
He said the decision to move away from production, currently housed at the company’s brewing facilities in Redchurch, Harlow, was not just a response to the “evolving brewing market” but also enabled the company to focus its energy on its pub operations, which it was seeking to expand and strengthen.
New partnership
At the moment, the company, which started out in Brighton with the Mash Tun in 1996, comprises 55 sites, with pubs across Brighton, London, Birmingham and a new DeadWax operation set to open in Norwich this autumn.
Speaking of the deal with Keystone, Danks added: “This new partnership is about getting our amazing beers to more people while staying true to the heart and soul of what makes Laine, Laine.”
The deal will see Keystone Brewing Group entering a licensing agreement with Laine, handling production, distribution, and the sales force. This new collaboration means more Laine beers will soon be available nationwide, Danks continued.
“This collaboration gives us the freedom to push boundaries and innovate faster than ever. We’re already working on a whole new line-up of recipes, with a special focus on exciting new fruit-based options, building on the phenomenal success of our Zest beer.
“We are also developing more enticing no- and low-alcohol options and can’t wait to share what’s next with all of you.”
Review inevitable
He also paid tribute to the brewing operation: “Firstly, I want to thank the entire Redchurch team for their hard work and dedication. We’ve been on one hell of a journey and created some fantastic beers.
“We are now at a point of reviewing our options for the brewery. The current economic climate makes it difficult to continue without significant further investment. We’re committed to supporting the Redchurch team with honesty and care as we navigate our options and next steps.”
He added they had no option but to review the business: “As many of you know, the brewing environment has become increasingly challenging.
“Rising costs, the Government’s changes to National Insurance and business rates, and shifting consumer habits have made it difficult for many breweries across the UK to remain sustainable. Here at Redchurch, we made significant changes back in April to trim costs after three years of consistent losses.
“Strategically, we have also made it clear that our primary focus is on growing the Laine business through our pubs, strengthening our core sites, and expanding our geographic footprint.”
