Upham Brewery today announced the appointment of James Stephenson as Head Brewer, as the Hampshire-based company continues its impressive expansion and looks set to increase production to 400 casks per month by the end of next year.
Stephenson comes to Upham with over 20 years experience at Charles Wells and then Wells and Young’s, where he spent five years as Head of Production before becoming Head Brewer and Head of Quality.
The 50 year-old will be in charge of overseeing the brewing of Upham’s existing range of three beers and ensure quality and consistency of Punter, a 4% ABV malty ale; Tipster, a refreshing golden ale with a 3.6% ABV; and Stakes, a Premium bitter which provides a kick with a 4.8% ABV.
Stephenson will also be responsible for creating up to four seasonal beers each year as Upham look to establish themselves as a premier regional beer. As well as producing its range of ales, a key component of Upham’s growth is its expansion into pub ownership. Upham already owns six pubs and inns across Hampshire, Wiltshire and Berkshire with plans to add a further 14 over the next two years.
James Stephenson said: “It’s hugely exciting to be joining a team with such a bold vision and have the opportunity to build upon the great success which Upham has achieved since it started producing beer just a few years ago.”
David Butcher, Director at Upham Ale Company added: “James comes with a huge wealth of experience and knowledge which will be a vital ingredient for the brewery as we look to continue our growth and really establish ourselves as one of the country’s premier regional beers. “
The appointment of Stephenson is the second high profile hire for Upham Brewery in the last eight months, after Mike Harnetty was appointed Head of Sales. Harnetty joined Upham having been at Thatchers for seven years where he took them to national distribution and helped grow sales from £12 million to £41 million.
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Upham Ales would like to invite media to their pubs to try its beers and food