The new site in Bredbury is three miles away from the original Unicorn Inn operation in the centre of Stockport, where brewing had taken place for close to 200 years.
All brewing ceased at the Unicorn site on 28 March 2025 and the new brewhouse has already seen the energy consumption drop by 12%.
Reflecting on the transition, Robinsons managing director Oliver Robinson said: “It was a big decision to move our brewhouse from Stockport town centre after more than 185 years and six generations of brewing history.
Future generations
“However, we had to look to our future and ensure our business is sustainable for our future generations. Our business has evolved over the years, and this has meant we have adapted our brewing operations to ensure a viable future for our brewing”.
The company recently completed its milestone 500th brew at the new brewhouse.
In addition, cask beer production and sales have continued to buck industry trends, with sales across Robinsons pubs five times the on-trade average, making up 28% of all beer sales.
Robinson added: “The efforts of the teams involved in this project has been incredible. From our property team, and the external contractors; to the dedication and passion of our Project Brewing team, who have been heavily involved right from the start.
Huge investment
“It has been a huge investment and of course not without its logistical challenges, but to be in the position we’re in now, it really is testament to the knowledge and commitment of our team.
“The way the wider brewing and production teams have come together this year, to learn and operate the new brewhouse also deserves a mention. It’s a big change to have undergone for our brew teams, some of whom have been with us for over 40 years – but they’ve embraced it.
“We’ve got a fantastic amount of brewing experience within the business and we’re incredibly proud of that. The experience of our team has ensured the beer quality remains excellent, and the change has gone unnoticed by our customers, to that we owe great thanks.”
It comes after joint managing direct William Robinson told The Morning Advertiser (The MA) the company would continue investing in its brewery and pub estate, despite cost pressures adding £2m to its operational costs.
- Look out for The MA’s Big Interview with Ollie Robinson on Tuesday 9 December. Sign up to our daily newsletter to be sent the story straight to your inbox.
