The West End brewery, owned by Lion, is undergoing some significant changes. Lion has made the decision to sell its 500 hectolitre German-made Steinecker brewhouse, which has been a central part of the brewery’s operations. The buyer of this brewhouse is Ostra Distillers, a company that specializes in producing whisky and other spirits. Ostra Distillers plans to repurpose the brewhouse for their own production purposes.
However, this sale is not the only change happening at the West End brewery. Lion has also announced its plans to close the brewery altogether in June 2021. This decision is undoubtedly a significant one, as the West End brewery has been a well-known and iconic part of the local community for many years.
The closure of the West End brewery raises questions about the future of the site and the impact it will have on the local economy and community. The brewery has been a source of employment for many people, and its closure will undoubtedly have consequences for those who work there.
It is worth noting that Lion has not explicitly stated the reasons behind the decision to close the West End brewery. However, it is not uncommon for companies to make strategic decisions based on market conditions, changing consumer preferences, or the need to streamline operations. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in craft beer and microbreweries, which may have influenced Lion’s decision to focus on other aspects of their business.
The sale of the brewhouse to Ostra Distillers suggests that there may still be value in the equipment and facilities at the West End brewery. Ostra Distillers’ decision to repurpose the brewhouse for whisky and spirits production highlights the adaptability and potential of the site.
The West End brewery is undergoing significant changes with the sale of the brewhouse and the planned closure. The impact of these changes on the local community and economy remains to be seen, but it is undoubtedly a significant development for all parties involved.