A firm located in East London has appointed Paul Thomas Walsh, a prominent figure in fintech and investment banking, as its first CEO as it prepares for an ambitious fundraising effort. This organization, which claims to be the “pioneers” of the no- and low-alcohol movement and operates the country’s sole dedicated brewhouse specializing in these beverages, aims to expand its operations following a record-breaking year since its launch in 2016.
In the past year, Nirvana Brewery achieved a remarkable 59% increase in sales compared to the previous year and garnered over a dozen industry accolades. This fundraising initiative aims to take advantage of the growing popularity of the no- and low-alcohol market, which saw the sale of 200 million pints in pubs and bars in 2025, alongside a retail sales increase of 13.3 million liters.
“We are ten years into being the first dedicated No/Low brewery, and we are committed to significant growth at a time when this sector is one of the few bright spots in brewing,” Walsh remarked. He also emphasized that their sales achievements present an opportune moment to leverage this momentum, underlining the need for substantial backing from investors who are inclined towards long-term commitments that would allow this innovative brewery to keep producing award-winning beers.
Walsh brings two decades of experience from markets in London, New York, and Berlin across various domains, including investment banking and fintech, as he leads Nirvana into its second decade. The upcoming fundraising is expected to represent a “step up” from previous funding efforts, aiming to attract institutional investors and family offices—which manage the wealth of ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families.
The new capital is anticipated to facilitate several critical initiatives for Nirvana, such as enhancing sales and account management teams, along with significant investments in product development and brand enhancement. Founder and brand ambassador, Becky Taylor-Kean, remarked, “Paul’s expertise and the funds raised will enable us to realize our ambition of becoming the UK’s No.1 alcohol-free craft beer.”
“We offer an array of options from 330ml cans to 500ml ‘long pour’ bottles, along with an expanding draught selection, distinguishing us as the only No/Low brewer capable of providing such a breadth of choices for the trade.”
