Manchester-based ShinDigger Brewery has secured a six-figure funding package from HSBC UK to expand premises and diversify sales channels.
Some of the ShinDigger team outside their central Manchester premises. Photographs: HSBC UK
The brewery has expanded its cold store premises at its central Manchester site. The additional 5,000 sq ft will help the popular brewery meet increased levels of consumer demand.
Funding has also helped ShinDigger pivot operations during the covid-19 pandemic. The business quickly adapted its business model from supplying to hospitality to developing direct-to-consumer online retail channels. This includes 90-minute on-demand delivery and UK-wide delivery services.
A combination of all of these routes to market have generated significant growth. Since hospitality fully re-opened, Shindigger Brewery has seen a 50% increase in year-on-year turnover compared to pre-covid levels, and the creation of two new jobs.
As restrictions ease, plans include supplying student unions across the UK, in addition to scaling-up supply service to pubs, bars, and supermarkets.
Paul Delamere, co-founder at ShinDigger Brewery, said: “The pandemic was undoubtedly a worrying time for small businesses like ours, but, thanks to HSBC UK, we can now look to the future with a renewed sense of optimism.
“The huge growth in our customer base is testament to our team’s perseverance and versatility, with the digitisation of our services having undoubtedly opened up exciting new pathways for further expansion.”
More space for ShinDigger Brewery as the business looks to keep up with demand
Andrew Holgate, business banking relationship manager at HSBC UK, added: “As a genuinely innovative business that has demonstrated resilience in the face of covid-19, we are thrilled to support ShinDigger Brewery as they drive forward ambitious growth plans.
“This investment marks a critical milestone for the future of ShinDigger and will allow the business to continue to deliver the best possible service for their rapidly growing customer base.”
Shindigger Brewery was established by Paul in partnership with George Grant in 2013, with the two friends initially brewing beer in their shared student accommodation. Since then, the brewery has grown to produce six core range beers, including the popular Mango Unchained, and seasonal specials, such as Iced Coffee pilsner. In 2020, ShinDigger produced 8,000hl of beer.
