Leeds Brewery wins at Publican Awards
Congratulations to Leeds Brewery, who won the Best Microbrewing Pub Company at the Publican Awards 2014, announced earlier this week.
John Bishop; SIBA chief executive Julian Grocock and Leeds Brewery managing director Sam Moss
This Award, run in association with SIBA, is designed to reward ‘a pub company that combines a successful microbrewing business with operating quality beer-focused pubs.’ Judges looked for evidence of how effectively the brewing and pub businesses complement each other.
Leeds Brewery is, according to judges, “a business with everything: the beers are good, the pubs are brilliantly designed and great to be in, the food is of a very high standard.” They continued, “Leeds Brewery manages to combine the best of youthful vigour and a wisdom you’d expect in a much older company. Each pub feels like a Leeds Brewery pub, and yet is its own place at the same time. Each manager is empowered to develop the pub offering, and their passion is obvious.”
They also praised the brewery for working closely with the local council to select non-pub sites to turn into pubs. Choosing the right site can be instrumental in turning around depressed areas in Leeds.
Leeds Brewery was one of three SIBA members shortlisted for the Best Microbrewing Pub Company Award this year. The other two finalists, Sonnet 43 Brew House and Brewhouse & Kitchen, were cited by judges as “very likely future winners of this award.”
SIBA chief executive Julian Grocock said, “This category is a challenging one as it demands excellence in brewing and retailing – two very different skills that aren’t always found within one small organisation. It is evident that Leeds Brewery is managing to combine both to build a flourishing business and are worthy winners of this award, which SIBA is delighted to support.”
Grocock presented the Award to Leeds Brewery managing director Sam Moss at the Publican Awards ceremony in London, which was compered by comedian John Bishop
