Can-do: Harviestoun head brewer Stuart Cail
After 33 years, Harviestoun Brewery is to offer the option of three of its top beer brands in cans. The expansion follows the firm’s most successful year to date.
Lager Schiehallion (4.8% ABV) and golden ale Bitter and Twisted (4.2%) are the first of the core range to enter the new format, adding to the brewery’s existing offering of cask, keg and bottle.
The range has secured Scottish listings in 80 Tesco stores and 95 Sainsbury’s stores and is expected to roll out UK-wide in the coming months.
The first batch of 41,500 cans will launch into stores today, retailing in four 330ml can packs with a recommended price of £6.
Growing international demand in Europe, North America and China, coupled with distribution deals with Majestic Wines, Gleneagles Hotel and D&D London, has seen turnover increase by 50% since 2013. Production has also doubled, increasing capacity to the equivalent of 4.5 million pints a year.
Recent investment of £400,000 in new equipment has supported the growth in production and the creation of seven job roles has taken the firm’s staff count to 21.
Managing director, Toby Knowles, said: “For over 30 years, Harviestoun has been driven by a desire to pioneer and innovate. Our canning programme is a symbol of our commitment to asking ‘what next for craft beer?’ and creating an unforgettable drinking experience for beer lovers in the UK and beyond.
“The last 12 months have been an incredibly exciting period of growth for Harviestoun. During this time we have never lost sight of our commitment to consistency, flavour and quality, which is why we believe Harviestoun continues to grow in popularity.
“So whether cask, keg, bottle or can, we are confident our award-winning core range, renowned for drinkability and innovation, will be enjoyed in ways as individual as the people who drink them.”
