Chancellor Philip Hammond has visited Love Lane Brewery, in Liverpool, which is run by former Caldonian Brewery boss, Stephen Crawley.
The brewery aims to put itself firmly on the map following a significant investment, with the capacity to supply across the North West and further afield as the business grows. The development, in Liverpool’s booming Baltic Triangle, houses the brewery, a gin distillery, and a retail business, Love Lane Brewery Bar & Kitchen. The company also runs tours, showcasing the brewery and distillery.
Crawley said: “We are an ambitious start-up with clear development plans. Our current crowdfunding campaign has seen enthusiastic interest from those that love all things Liverpool and, of course, Love Lane. As a returning local, I am very pleased that our shareholders chose to invest in the proposed regeneration project, providing jobs and opportunities for the talented people who live here.
Continued government support
“The visit from the Chancellor enabled us to showcase all areas of the business, explain our expansion plans for Love Lane, Higson’s and The Ginsmiths of Liverpool gin range, as well as request continued support from the government to enable new businesses to develop and grow.
“Understandably, the complexities of the small brewers relief, whilst crucial in assisting small operators, is a delicate balancing act that needs to ensure it does not stem growth. We need the government to support us in this challenge whilst helping UK brewers gain fair market share without being penalised for growth.”
Chancellor Hammond said: “Figures show that, in the North West alone, the beer and pub sectors generate around £2.6 billion of value and support nearly 110,000 jobs in the region. Britain’s success has been built on innovation and entrepreneurial activity, and the North West has always been at the heart of this. This means that whether you are setting up a new micro-brewery or making strides in tech innovation, the government is fully behind you and is invested in your success.”
