Bath Ales Secures Landmark Export Deal
Independent brewer, Bath Ales, has just signed a key export deal with the biggest country in the world as the business plans further dramatic growth in overseas sales.
Barnsey pint - Russia is now the biggest export market for Bath Ales, followed by New Zealand and Brazil.
Russia has become the tenth country to join Bath Ales’ export portfolio as the business looks to introduce its beers to new territories. Shipments to foreign markets doubled in 2013 and the brewer intends to double sales again in 2014.
Export manager, Moussa Clarke, said: “Wild Hare low resDemand for quality craft beer overseas is booming and we’re confident the quality of our products will see us deliver further success.
“We currently export to countries as far away as Mexico, Brazil and New Zealand as well as closer to home in Europe, and this year we’re planning to significantly increase our distribution abroad. We’ve been working hard to build our reputation overseas. This new deal sets the tone for what we can achieve.”
The deal with Russia will see Bath Ales’ flagship beer, Gem, as well as Wild Hare, Dark Side and Barnsey, available in the off-trade market nationwide. Distribution will be handled from Moscow.
Moussa continued: “We’re exporting a range of different styles and flavours of beer which is designed to showcase exactly what we’re capable of.
“We’re an extremely dynamic business and we believe we make beers which have genuine appeal in very many markets so I’m excited to see where we can take it.”
Robin Couling, Managing Director at Bath Ales, added: “The reputation of British brewing overseas is arguably at an all-time high, though many brewers do not capitalise on the opportunity.
“Currently only about 17% of breweries in the UK export their beer overseas so we’re one of the pioneers and there are huge benefits to be gained.”
As well as increasing sales overseas, Bath Ales is gearing up for a busy start to the year as plans to refurbish its new venues in Bristol’s Colston Hall get underway.
Robin continued: “We’ve just weeks into the New Year, but we’re already brewing up a storm at Hare House and making ambitious plans for the months ahead – it’s going to be a very big year for us.”
