After a period of uncertainty, Hop Stuff Brewery has been sold to Molson Coors in a pre-pack administration deal, wiping out the company’s existing shareholders.
In a statement, founder James Yeomans said: “As you know, Hop Stuff Brewery has been experiencing financial difficulties in the recent months. Unfortunately, due to the cash position of the business weighing heavily on the business, Hop Stuff Brewery and each of its subsidiaries entered into administration on Friday (July 12), with the appointment of Neil Gostelow and Will Wright, of KPMG, as joint administrators.
“I’m pleased to say we were able to secure an asset sale to Molson Coors Brewing Company as part of a pre-packaged administration process, which includes our brewery, brand, and taprooms, and the transfer of all staff to Molson Coors. Due to our financial position, this was the best possible option for our people and the future of our beers, or we faced the whole business going into liquidation.
“Unfortunately, a full sale of the shareholding of the company was commercially unviable and so I truly regret to have to confirm that there will be no returns to investors. I am so sorry. I wanted so much to turn the passion you have for Hop Stuff Brewery into a financial win for you and I am absolutely gutted that hasn’t happened.
‘I am commited to protecting the ethos of Hop Stuff and our brands’
“I want to thank you so much for your belief in us. You have helped to build this business and I want to make sure that you continue to feel a part of it. For my part, I am absolutely committed to protecting the ethos of Hop Stuff and our brands, and I am completely confident Molson Coors shares that commitment.
“In Molson Coors we’ve found a partner who believes wholeheartedly craft beer should be accessible, inclusive, and of exceptionally high and consistent quality. With their support and guidance, we are going to be able to start brewing again and be able to supply our customers in London. Hop Stuff beers won’t disappear.
“I would completely understand if you wanted to wash your hands of us, but I very much hope you don’t. If you’d like to remain a part of our journey, together with Molson Coors, we will be launching a Hop Stuff Collective for original investors who would like to stay involved. Members of the collective will receive exclusive access to key events throughout the year, a product subscription, discounts, and be invited to be part of new product development through quarterly tastings and innovation sessions at the brewery.
“While not the hoped-for outcome, I hope you agree the Hop Stuff Collective will be a tribute to the important role you have played in our business and a unique opportunity to help us build on that legacy.”
