The future of Buxton Brewery has been secured following a sale of its business and assets to Happy Place Investors Limited.
Rick Harrison and Howard Smith from Interpath Advisory were appointed joint administrators to Buxton Brewery Company Limited and Axe Edge Bars Limited (together, “the Group”) on 20 May 2024.
Founded in 2009 and operating from a custom designed and built brewhouse in Buxton, Derbyshire, the Group is a producer and retailer of craft ales, producing upwards of 30 distinct brews, with volumes of around 3,500 litres per brew, seven times per week.
Trading under the Buxton Brewery brand, it supplies several supermarkets and pub chains nationally, as well as exporting overseas through a number of export partners. In addition, the Group also operates four taprooms and bars located in Buxton, alongside a pop-up bottle shop and online store.
In common with many other craft breweries, Buxton Brewery had experienced financial pressures in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, which were then exacerbated in more recent times by high-cost inflation and increases to interest rates. The Director sought to explore their options, including options for sale and investment, but with creditor pressure mounting, the Director took the difficult decision to seek the appointment of the administrators.
Immediately following their appointment, the joint administrators sold certain of the business and assets of the Group to Happy Place Investors Limited. The deal safeguards the future of the brewery and the Group’s taprooms and bars in Buxton and the employment of all circa 50 members of staff who have transferred to the purchaser as part of the transaction.
Rick Harrison, managing director at Interpath Advisory and joint administrator, said: “Independent craft brewers have had to navigate a number of headwinds in recent times, not least the long-term impact of the pandemic, as well as the impact of inflation on raw material costs.
“We’re therefore pleased to have concluded this transaction which safeguards the future of this well-regarded craft ale brand and its collection of popular taphouses in Buxton. We wish the purchaser and all of the team at Buxton Brewery all the best for the future.”
