Founded in 2015, North Brewing was successfully rescued from administration in January 2024. This transition followed the strategic sale of its business and assets to Vertical Drinks and Kirkstall Brewery in a single transaction.
Following the sale, Steve Holt of Kirkstall will continue to oversee the brand’s Springwell brewery. Importantly, the new owners have assured that there will be no job losses as a result of this acquisition.
North Brewing operates a vibrant tap room at its Springwell site and has expanded to 10 venues across the UK, along with an additional site in Italy. Its beers are widely available in UK supermarkets and bars, and the company exports to 27 countries worldwide.
Co-founded by John Gyngell and Christian Townsley, the duo faced significant challenges last year, which led to their decision to sell. They cited “the turbulence of Covid, Brexit, material cost increases, cost of living crisis and interest rate rises” as key factors impacting their operations.
Keystone ‘delighted’
“We are delighted that the North Brewing brand and beers will join the Keystone family,” said Mark Williams of Keystone.
“It is a true icon with a compelling reputation for innovation and high-quality beers. We see enormous potential to build on its success, growing it nationally while preserving its original Yorkshire identity.”
“We are also thrilled to announce that Steve Holt will be working with us as a special advisor to our group moving forward. These are exciting times for Keystone, and we’re not finished yet.”
Looking ahead, Keystone aims to expand its distribution both nationally and internationally. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to develop a £100 million portfolio of beer and cider brands. Currently, its impressive portfolio includes Black Sheep, Purity, Brick, Brew by Numbers, Big Drop, Wolf Pack, Maison SASSY Cider, Magic Rock, and Fourpure.
In the meantime, Holt expressed satisfaction at the prospect of North beers continuing to be brewed and packaged at the Springwell site.
“They have the sales and marketing resources to expand distribution and accelerate the brand’s growth,” he added.