Bristol Beer’s Bold Bet on Sustainability Sees £1.2 Million Brewery Come to Life

Image Credit: Bristol Beer Factory

A long-standing Bristol brewery with deep roots in the city’s hospitality scene has secured fresh funding to support a significant expansion. Bristol Beer Factory, known for its popular craft offerings and its ownership of four well-loved pubs across the city, has now moved into a brand-new 12,000 square foot facility. The new site effectively doubles the company’s previous footprint, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey after years of steady demand outpacing its former premises.

Backed by an investment of £1.2 million, the facility has been designed with sustainability at its core. It will enable the brewery to scale up production while actively working toward its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

To fund the move and support equipment upgrades, Bristol Beer Factory secured a seven-figure funding package from Lloyds Bank. This includes capital import finance as well as hire purchase arrangements tailored to the business’s expansion needs.

The brewery has been operating in South Bristol for over two decades and remains a beloved fixture in the local community. Alongside its brewing operations, it owns and manages several venues, including BBF Tap Room & Studio, The Barley Mow, the Arnolfini Harbourside Café-Bar, and Junction.

This latest development not only underscores the company’s ambition but also reinforces its commitment to both craft excellence and environmental responsibility.

The funding has enabled the company to respond to growing customer demand while streamlining its operations and enhancing overall sustainability. With more space and upgraded systems, Bristol Beer Factory is now positioned to scale up its output and operate more efficiently.

This phase of growth has already paved the way for increased brewing capacity, and the company has marked the occasion with the launch of a brand-new Pilsner lager. The 4.1 per cent brew adds to their already popular lineup and reflects their continued commitment to quality and innovation.

Beyond production, the expansion has also delivered a boost to local employment. Six new team members have joined the company, including two apprentices, as part of its focus on nurturing talent and investing in long-term skills development within the community.

Sam Burrows, managing director at Bristol Beer Factory, said: "This expansion is about more than just brewing more beer; we’ve also been able to make improvements across the board, benefitting our people, community and planet.”

"We’re continuing towards our goal of being a leading brand in the city, that is known for doing right by the community we operate in. This new brewery means we can better respond to a positive trend in customer demand while also increasing our ability to deliver social value-driven projects like “Brewed to Give”. We’re excited to see what the future holds."

Will Kite, relationship director at Lloyds, said:!Bristol Beer Factory is a shining example of what sustainable growth looks like. By investing in greener production and deepening its community roots, it’s driving lasting value across Bristol. We’ve worked with the business for the past decade and are proud to support them in their ongoing success."