The north Yorkshire brewer insisted Keystone Brewing Group has not gone into administration, as reported by several media outlets last week.
In a Facebook post on Saturday (29 November), the brewery clarified a notice of intent to appoint an administrator had been filed as a “protective measure”, adding Black Sheep remained focused on brewing and supplying its beers.
The post said: “We’re still here and we are fighting for the future of great beer. You may have seen several rumours Keystone Brewing Group has gone into administration. Let us be clear: That is not the case.
Protective measure
“We have filed a notice of intent to appoint an administrator, which is a protective measure that allows us to keep trading as normal while we secure new investment or explore a potential sale.
“It gives us the breathing space we need to protect our people, our brands and our customers. We’re still brewing, we’re still delivering, we’re still here.
“The same beers. The same quality. The same passion behind every pint. As we head into the festive season our focus remains on what we do best, which is making and supplying exceptional beer, cider and brands that people love.
“To our customers, partners and supporters, we want to say thank you for standing with us. Your continued loyalty means everything to our team and we’re determined to come through stronger than ever.”
A Notice of Intention - or NOI - is defined as declaring intention to appoint an administrator in order to rescue a business, repay creditors and save it from liquidation.
Zero disruption
Hofmeister, which Keystone signed a distribution deal for in March this year, has also assured there will be “zero disruption” to supplies of its products.
Keystone, which employs around 190 people at breweries across the country, acquired Black Sheep out of administration in 2023.
Since then, it has invested more than £1m into making the Masham brewing site a ‘centre for excellence’.
Other brands in Keystone’s portfolio include Purity, Brew by Numbers, Big Dop, Magic Rock, Fourpure, North Brewing Co., and Wolf Pack.
In June this year, Keystone received £2m investment from its owner, Breal Group.
