West Berkshire Brewery, at the centre of sexism and bullying allegations towards the end of this year, has been purchased by Yattendon Estates.
The brewery was established by Dave and Helen Maggs in 1995, originally operating on a five-barrel plant. The business grew quickly, though, and has expanded four times, the last time under previous owner David Bruce.
In August, an open letter from a group of former employees, who dubbed themselves the WBB Renegades, made the allegations. A month later, managing director Tom Lucas stood down.
Grant Thornton was appointed to find a buyer and that seems to have been a relatively quick process, with the brewery now part of the multi-faceted Yattendon Estates business, established by entrepreneur Edward Iliffe.
Open for business
He told Newbury Today: “We were excited to be more involved in the West Berkshire Brewery, who produce a great product based at the Renegade Brewery, in the heart of the village of Yattendon. We saw the acquisition as an opportunity to add to the range of quality products owned and produced on the estate.
“The craft brewery sector has been growing strongly, with drinkers looking for a closer-to-home brew and provenance. The brewery enhanced its offer this year with Solo, a low-alcohol beer — another area that has seen growth and interest.”
He added: “The estate, whilst not a large producer of barley, does sell to Crisp Maltings, who have been providing malt to the brewery. The Tap Room and Kitchen provide an excellent opportunity to taste their brews, as well as offering brewery tours and sales of bottles and cans for take-away.
“We are open for business and looking forward to an excellent Christmas and New Year period. We will be recruiting a new managing director and are looking forward to the business growing and going from strength to strength.”
