Alltech Beverage Division announces major expansion with purchase of two European craft breweries

Alltech’s acquisition of The Station Works Brewery in Newry Co. Down and Cumberland Breweries Ltd. in Great Corby, Cumbria, England represents the first major expansion outside the United States for its brewing division. Already one of the fastest growing craft brewers in the United States, these purchases represent a significant investment by Lyons in the future of the rapidly expanding craft brewing sector in Europe. Alltech’s core animal nutrition business has achieved annual sales greater than $1.6 billion and recently spent approximately $400 million acquiring Ridley, Inc. with operations in the U.S. and Canada.

With a capacity to produce 40,000 hectolitres, the two new breweries add several new brands, including Finn Lager and Foxes Rock Ale, to the growing Alltech portfolio.

“These new purchases will allow us develop already established European brands while at the same time introducing our Kentucky Ale range to new markets,” said  Lyons, who achieved his doctorate in brewing and distilling before founding Alltech.

“We are dedicated to offering the consumer real choice in the beer sector. Since our first investment in the Alltech Craft Brews & Foods Fair in Dublin three years ago, the sector has mushroomed and our Fair is now the largest in Ireland, attracting more than 10,000 visitors annually,” said Lyons.

With three new breweries under construction in the United States, and a major investment in a new distillery in the heart of the liberties at the former St James Church, where his grandfather is buried, Lyons is set to continue the family history.

“We want to be one of the top 50 craft brewers in the world,” said. Lyons.

-Ends

Photo Caption (download high-resolution image here):

From left to right: Conor Farrell, formerly of Cumberland Breweries Ltd. and now to be European sales manager of the Alltech Beverage Division, alongside Kevin Tuck, managing director of Alltech Ireland, toasting the major expansion plans of Alltech’s Beverage Division with the purchase of Cumberland Breweries Ltd.

About Alltech:

Founded in 1980 by Irish entrepreneur and scientist Dr. Pearse Lyons, Alltech improves the health and performance of people, animals and plants through natural nutrition and scientific innovation. Its mission is carried out by more than 4,200 team members who adhere to the company’s guiding ACE principle seeking the benefit of Animals, Consumers and the Environment in all endeavours. Headquartered just outside of Lexington, Kentucky, USA, Alltech has a strong presence in all regions of the world, doing business in 128 countries. For further information, visit www.alltech.com. For media assets, visit www.alltech.com/news.