Brewing & Beverage Industries Business, Summer 2024, issue 32

Brewing & Beverage Industries Business is a quarterly ‘Supply Chain’ magazine targeting the UK drinks production industry. If your company supplies products and services to brewers, distillers, cider makers, etc, then this is the platform for you.

Subscription is free and printed copies are mailed out throughout Great Britain and Northern Ireland If you are one of the very few UK brewers, distillers, or cider manufacturers, not receiving a regular copy, then please contact us today

WHO WE ARE

Magazine Editor

Chris Freer

Digital Editor

Simon Butler

For editorial or advertising enquiries, call the Editor on 0115 8 549 349 or e-mail: chris@brewingbusiness.co.uk

WHO WRITES FOR U S

RUTH EVANS MBE

Ruth is CEO of BFBi, whose membership represents the supply chain for the brewing and beverage industries

JULIAN GROCOCK

Julian Grocock is a former chief executive of SIBA with extensive experience in beer, brewery and pub politics.

ALAN POWELL

Alan Powell is a specialist excise duties consultant, who heads up the British Distillers Alliance

We are delighted to be the home of

Cover illustration - Christian Barden, CEO UK & Europe, Konvoy Kegs, with some of the company’s products at BeerX 2024

by freerbutler limited PO Box 9666 • Nottingham • NG10 9BY United Kingdom

Tel: 0115 8 549 349 brewingbusiness.co.uk

Our print circulation is audited and certified

Brewing & Beverage Industries Business magazine is an independent publication delighted to be a MEDIA PARTNER to All rights reserved No part of this publication may be stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means, electronic or mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of freerbutler limited Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information in this publication is accurate and up-to-date, freerbutler limited does not take any responsibility for errors or omissions Opinions expressed in editorial contributions to this publication are those of their respective authors and not necessarily shared by freerbutler limited © freerbutler limited 2024

Representing the entire value chain supplying the Brewing, Food & Beverage Industry

Members of

freerbutler limited is a Supplier Associate member of

Ruth Evans MBE

Photo by Gerardo Jaconelli

From very challenging situations, new shoots grow

Just recovering from organising the BFBi National Luncheon, hosting the International Brewing & Cider Awards at Guildhall, City of London.

It is this event and others that remind us all of how fantastic our industry is; how collaborative our industry is; how passionate our industry is.

If we could only bottle the joy, collaboration, passion and, even, optimism that was within the confines of the Crypts yesterday we would be a much more successful, less stressed and more productive industry

Hold onto those feelings and nurture them into optimism – our history (ABTA/BFBi’s) shows us that from very challenging situations, new shoots grow We are a cyclical industry and the cycle will turn

BFBi annual Trade Directory

Now available

The most authoritative directory o UK food & drinks market availab

The directory is free-of-charge to drinks manufacturers and BFBi members

For details of how to obtain a copy please contact admin@bfbi.org.uk

‘Nuff said

Ruth Evans MBE, BFBi C.E.O.

Established in 1907, BFBi’s membership represents the entire value chain supplying the brewing and beverage industry – from seed geneticists through raw materials, brewhouse and process equipment to dispense, point-of-sale and brewers/distillers The Association’s objective is to be the foremost trade association providing opportunities for its Members to develop within the brewing, food & beverage industry.

As well as offering many benefits and services to suppliers of raw materials, process and packaging machinery, dispense and point of sale products, BFBi is a Trade Challenge Partner for various overseas exhibitions and owner and organiser of the oldest international brewing and cider Awards in the world.

SEE PAGE 66 FOR MORE INFO ON HOW TO JOIN BFBi

The View Through My Glass Bottom

Julian Grocock

I need to talk about Kevin...

I have mentioned Kevin before, when writing about the regular gatherings of drinking pals in our village local. Known to us all as Kev, he was very much at the heart of our pub community. And yes, sadly the word is now 'was' because, totally out of the blue, he suffered a heart attack on Friday the 9th of February, and tragically passed away suddenly in hospital the following morning. He was 67.

Vee, Kev's partner of 44 years, messaged me very late on the Friday night to apologise for their no-show, explaining that Kev wasn't well, but hoping they'd be able to join us for Saturday's live music So her phone call at about 1 30pm the next day came as a total shock, and I called into the pub straight away to pass on the terrible news

Saturday evening went ahead The covers band I play in performed for two friends' joint birthday party Kev had been a really enthusiastic fan of our music, and Vee insisted he'd want the show to go on

It was our first step into a new reality ~

Writing this hasn't been easy But I wanted to do it. And, more importantly, Vee wanted me to do it She wants everyone to understand and appreciate the pub's positive and therapeutic role in helping her start the difficult journey to build a new normality for her everyday life. Vee came back in as soon as she found the courage, and of course at first it felt totally wrong without her life companion But with determination and perseverance –and the entirely natural and unforced support of the rest of us – she hopes she is progressing at an appropriate rate to where she wants to be. It should also be noted that the supportive pub vibe goes beyond our close circle of friends, to our hosts Leon and Gemma and their staff, and the broader regular clientele right across the age range – from just legal to even more geriatric than I am

~

Together, we're rediscovering humour too. Every Monday night, some of the gang play a few games of dominoes Then, to round off the evening, we all gather round the playing board and throw in a quid apiece for a simple gambling challenge called In The Box – which involves putting the dominoes away by matching with the one next to the box, and trying to win the pot by being the first with no dominoes in hand when none are left on the table

Quite a few of us had noticed Kev had been enjoying more than his fair share of success at this But I have to confess that I was the one who risked drawing attention to the irony that he'd now really taken In The Box too far It wasn't really a risk, though, because all the time spent in the pub with Kev and Vee and our friends meant I knew it would be received in the light-hearted spirit intended – in much the same way everyone knew Kev himself would have responded

~ Please know that I'm well aware of other headline news and developments in our industry, at a national level, which could have much more significant and farreaching effects than the loss of one punter (and which I shall most probably address next time).

Critically important among these is the planned revival strategy for and proposed accompanying investment in the British on trade, via its Star Pubs & Bars chain, by the powerful and influential Heineken multinational corporation

It's a way forward that potentially seriously reinforces the underlying ideology of this article. And if you appreciate the value of what I have written, you will also appreciate the essential value of our pub culture and community

Just as Kev did and Vee does ~

Finally, let's not forget that the driving force behind all this is Kev himself. I was deeply honoured to be asked to pen a few words for his funeral:

'Kev was a pub friend – a drinking buddy, great company, and a true character He was always eager to participate in any and every topic of conversation, from the really serious to the totally frivolous Together we put the world to rights and enjoyed many a laugh at how ridiculous it could be

To say Kev was "larger than life" doesn't make him immortal, but it does mean he will live on in all our hearts and minds.'

And that's all because we met and spent time together in a pub

Julian Grocock

Julian Grocock is a former pub landlord, managing director of Tynemill/Castle Rock, and chief executive of SIBA

Extensive experience in beer and pub politics, brewery and pubco operations, and on the front line in the pub trade...‘from cellar to ceiling’.

Showcasing the British spirit

Alan Powell Spirits duty stamps and WOWGR to get the heave ho!

This is a follow-up to my article in the winter edition of this magazine (WOWGR and duty stamps review – crawling to finishing line)

I have been lobbying and campaigning for repeal of the law concerning spirits duty stamps and registration of third party owners of goods in warehouse (WOWGR) for several years There was never any justification for these measures, which were initially conceived in error by HMCE that there was widespread spirits duty fraud involving the warehousing sector

That fraud was in fact HMCE’s honey trap sting known eponymously as the London City Bond fraud to “let loads run” between 1994-98 and led to nearly £500 million irrecoverable excise duty losses That entrapment operation, run covertly by HMCE’s elite Investigation Service, was stopped dead by highestlevel edict to prevent further spirits duty losses WOWGR and duty stamps were in fact a cynical deception by HMCE to deflect blame from themselves and to smear legitimate industry that the fraud was endemic to the warehousing sector, causing havoc for many innocent traders up to this day. It is HMCE’s “Post Office” scandal and has infuriated me at the injustice

Anyway, at Spring Budget 2024, the government announced its intention to abolish the Duty Stamp Scheme with plans to publish draft legislation to achieve this later in the year HMRC made a presentation to industry representatives shortly afterwards with what draft legislation to end the scheme might look like:

1 A fixed end date - a final date on which the Scheme will no longer apply

2 No prohibition on stamping is required because traders regard it as a burden and will cease on their own volition

3 No restriction on stamped product Stamped and unstamped containers should both be acceptable for sale and supply immediately after the Scheme's end

4 No requirement to remove stamps from stamped bottles

5 The rules will continue to apply until the end date That will apply to books and record keeping

HMRC prepared a questionnaire for industry to be returned mid-May The feedback from the British Distillers Alliance (BDA) members has been to get rid of the duty stamps law with minimum fuss

Moving on – at the Joint Excise Consulting Group (JECG) meeting held on 18 April, HMRC reiterated that repeal of WOWGR remained their “preferred option” (for utterly compelling legal reasons), the recommendation having been made to senior (director level) HMRC officials in April for sign-off to repeal the law to be sent to minister May/June for minister ’s decision This ought to be a formality I should record, however, that HMRC said at the JECG that there had been few responses to a consultation on repeal of WOWGR (27 in total) - most had been from warehousekeepers who wish to retain it as part of their due diligence

I don't know how many responses came from trade bodies and how many from individuals, but the BDA response was wholly to repeal WOWGR, providing the legal reasons why the scheme never had legitimacy HMRC did not reference this but if individuals from the BDA had responded, it would have been rather more than 27 in favour of repeal HMRC said they would respond/explain to industry what "due diligence (residually) would be required post WOWGR In any event, HMRC said (to paraphrase) that WOWGR was not to be wholly relied on as to the on-going probity of a registered person and is not to be seen as a "comfort blanket" I agree and to repeat what I said in my earlier article, I think the concern about WOWGR (which applies only to beer and spirits for alcohol) misses the point - there is no difference whether owners of beer and

The British Distillers Alliance (BDA) is a non-profit making body which provides a professional service for independent and craft businesses in the spirits production industry and supply chain. The BDA represents distillers, rectifiers and compounders and those in related sectors. New members always welcome.

spirits are subject to WOWGR registration or not

Such owners may be WOWGR registered but that does not mean the standard due diligence condition is modified The Due Diligence condition is a risk-based “probability” process to identify risk of alcohol duty fraud in the specific supply chain and mitigate any risk identified, the process commencing with “discovering how the fraud occurs”, as the courts have told us In terms of whisky cask sales, say, there is not even a supply chain per se, so one has to assess if there is even a risk to mitigate Sensible and reasonable commercial due diligence augmented by excise duty fraud awareness would be a responsible approach to assess such fraud risk and whether there is any risk to be mitigated

This is regardless of WOWGR registration of the owners of the goods For comparison, wine is not even subject to the due diligence condition per se in the warehousing system (but is for AWRS)

Utterly irrational and needs the boot!

Alan Powell

Alan Powell is a specialist excise duties consultant, formerly a Policy official within HMCE’s HQ teams He is excise duties advisor to the Chartered Institute of Taxation, honorary advisor to the UK Warehousing Association and founded the British Distillers Alliance as a conduit for consultation with, and representation to, Government bodies and to assist and advise on technical matters The BDA represents distillers, rectifiers and compounders and those in related sectors. New members welcome!

For further information:

www.britishdistillersalliance.com

SHOWC ASE Containers

l Bottles & cans plus labelling and decoration, and on-shelf packaging l IT systems for container tracking

l Bulk packaging & associated labelling for transportation of beer and other beverages

Bid farewell to oxygen contamination with Arlington

Arlington's revolutionary 1000L containers, coupled with Sterile Airless inner liners, have swiftly emerged as a ‘gold standard’ for maintaining hygiene and preserving beer quality during transportation from brewery to bottling / canning.

Offering a cost-effective solution, these transport tanks ensure zero contamination and eradicate the risk of Dissolved Oxygen exposure,

safeguarding the integrity of your precious brew throughout its journey

But Arlington doesn't just stop there In an ongoing quest to enhance beer quality, we've introduced innovative solutions to further minimise oxygen exposure during the filling process Our cutting-edge "Air Bleed Valve" empowers brewers to expel all air from their filling hoses, ensuring a seamless flow of beer right up to the valve on the liner By eliminating any residual air in pipes or fittings, this breakthrough significantly reduces the risk of oxygen ingress during filling, yielding exceptional outcomes for brewers and canners alike

For those venturing to send their beer on extended journeys or planning for prolonged storage periods, Arlington presents an additional layer of protection with our High Oxygen Barrier and UV Barrier Liners (Metalized Foil Liners) These premium liners feature the highest oxygen barrier film available in the market today, guaranteeing unparalleled preservation of your brew's freshness and flavour integrity

What's more, Arlington containers and liners are readily available in stock, with same-day dispatch and no minimum order quantities required Whether

New 1-piece shive is now available from UB Plastics

UB Plastics announces the successful launch of our new 1-piece Shive

Manufactured from a tough food grade Linear Low Density Polyethylene, and being a 1-piece moulding as opposed to 2 pieces, the cost of manufacturing the Shive is greatly reduced, meaning we can pass these savings on to our customers

We have 2 different sizes in the range, designed to seal any stainless steel casks

We are also manufacturing our range of

keg caps from 100% recycled Black Polypropylene, this not only offers a cost saving for our customers but also highlights our commitment to our green agenda

Coloured keg caps manufactured from virgin Polypropylene material are also available.

Up to 5-colour branding using in mould labelling technology is of course still available on our complete range of keg caps

For further information:

you're transporting 500L or 20,000L+, our efficient logistics ensure prompt delivery, minimizing downtime and maximising efficiency for your operations

When it comes to moving your brew, don't settle for compromises Choose Arlington, the industry's trusted partner, dedicated to preserving the purity and quality of your beer every step of the way

UB Plastics Ltd, situated in Burton on Trent, are the primary UK manufacturers of a range of Shives and Keystones to suit all UK cask variants Our Shives and Keystones come in a range of colours

We also manufacture a complete range of Keg caps for the following keg spear specifications S type, A type and G type in Tamper Evident and Dust cover designs.

Our caps are manufactured from either virgin or black recycled Polypropylene offering 5 colour branding using the latest IML technology.

Our Brown keystone resealing plugs are a cheaper more environmentally friendly alternative to Cork and offer an excellent seal to used casks on their journey back to the brewery.

Please contact Steve Brown for further information on 07885 866777 or email sales@ubplastics.co.uk / stevebrown@ubplastics.co.uk

SHOWC ASE Containers

Let’s start to talk kegonomics…

Says Christian Barden, CEO UK & Europe, Konvoy Kegs

Kegonomics (noun) is an applied science concerned with the study of keg and cask efficiency in their working environment. As you might have already guessed, it isn’t a “thing” (yet) but it should be.

Kegonomics should be the ratio of the useful work performed by a keg or cask compared to the cost of purchase, the carbon footprint of production and the total input supply chain activities

The most efficient keg fleets have lowest loss rates, highest rotations and travel the lowest amount of road miles between fills and deliver the lowest economic and environmental cost per pint Given the global statistics on loss rates, replacement rates and rotation rates there is a huge industry opportunity to push towards net zero in the broadest sense of the term

Keg fleet management metrics must begin to move from aggregation to disaggregation by starting to break down minute keg fleet management activities and costs into individual component parts Keg fleet management attitudes must also begin to change from accepting what the industry has always done, and that

tracking technologies are unreliable and add unnecessary costs and activities to the supply chain, when the costs of what the industry does today are already unsustainable whilst new technologies are already proving to revolutionise multiple industry supply chains by creating sustainability through traceability

Enabling the appropriate infrastructures and processes for the reusable to be reused, the shareable to be shared, the traceable to be traced and the circular in perpetual circulation, lies at the core of the opportunity that Internet of Things (IoT) asset tracking can bring in addition to immediate benefits such as improved visibility and real-time monitoring of assets, enhanced operational efficiency through better asset utilisation, reduced loss or theft of assets, streamlined supply chain management and enhanced customer service through accurate tracking of deliveries or shipments

There are ~200m kegs and casks globally with ~5%-10% lost each year at a cost of ~USD$800m-1 6bn and ~300k–600k tons of carbon to replace them, and that’s before the cost of any carbon credit offsets The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive

Schäfer announces new sales team

Schäfer Container Systems, an established supplier to the UK brewing market for many years, has announced changes to its sales team which will now be led by Edward Ros as Container Business Sales Director and Oliver Evering as Global Key accounts Manager. Both Edward, a qualified brewer, and Oliver bring with them experience of the European brewing industry.

As for the UK market, Mike Hickmanformer Sales Director - is now an agent, so continuing his twenty-five-year involvement with the company

According to Mike, “It is a far more volatile brewing Industry now than the one I entered over forty years ago, and with a myriad of challenges facing both brewers and suppliers, we are seeing

the same picture globally particularly for the on-trade

“To help face this challenge Schäfer is improving its reaction time and competitiveness for lower volume orders. As the original keg suppliers to such companies as Camden, Brewdog, Beavertown and Meantime, we hope to see the newer entrants to the market emulate their growth in the future

“With production capacity of 1 2 million containers per year, manufacturing three different styles of keg including the light weight Ecokeg, noiseless PLUS keg and traditional all stainless steel keg, Schafer makes an excellent partner for all your container needs ” Mike can be contacted on 07538 069886

As a footnote, Mike also remains the UK consultant for Lambrechts and comments, ‘’We are currently seeing a

(CSRD) will also impact 50k PLC’s & SME’s in the UK over time Scope 3 emissions make up 70% of carbon footprint of hospitality, 85% of brewing, and packaging contribution within that ranging from ~15-40%,

~85% of consumers consider sustainability when making a purchase and are prepared to pay more for ethically sourced, sustainably made products A typical 30 litre keg used for 30 years, never lost, used 3 times per year will have 2 4 times less carbon per 500ml serve, at just 5 6 grams of CO2e, than a keg that’s has to be replaced once over the same 30 years and used 2 5 times per year which is why we need to be embracing the real kegonomics of keg and cask fleet management for a better world of beer

great deal of interest in our equipment ’

“This has in part been triggered by multiple-use keg rental schemes which are now on offer, so requiring the brewer to invest in his own equipment for keg sterility, rather than the rented kegs arriving ready to fill

“With the increasing cost of transport, we could well see this trend continuing ”

Pictured are Mike (right) and Lambrechts sales engineer Steven Clymans, at the recent BeerX show

SHOWC ASE Containers

Trappist brewery launches new beer in Beatson Clark bottle

The UK’s only Trappist brewery has released a second beer, which is now on sale in a bottle designed and manufactured by Beatson Clark

Mount Saint Bernard Trappist Brewery in Coalville, Leicestershire has brewed a tasty blond beer to join its internationally renowned Tynt Meadow dark ale – both of which are sold in the 330ml amber beer bottle from Beatson Clark’s standard range

Trappist beers are traditionally sold in bottles because they undergo secondary fermentation in the bottle, a process that is ideal in glass It means the beer matures in flavour for the first three years, and because of the inert nature of glass it can have a much longer shelf life than that if the bottle isn’t opened, something that isn’t possible in other packaging materials such as cans

“Because of this process, if the bottles are kept in the right conditions – out of UV light, at a consistent room temperature – and the crown and bottle is kept sealed so that no oxygen can get in, the beer will last indefinitely,” explained Peter Grady, Brewery Manager at Mount Saint Bernard Abbey. “The flavour profile of a Tynt Meadow changes drastically over the course of

the first three years and, in our opinion, less so after that This is why we put three years on the bottle, but it will last much longer than that as it’s packaged in glass ”

Because the bottle is made from amber glass it offers extra protection from the harmful effects of UV light “The bottle design is exactly the same – it has already become quite iconic and recognisable,” said Peter “The only differences in the packaging are minor adjustments to the label and the goldcoloured crowns on top ” Mount Saint Bernard Trappist Brewery now regularly brews over 1,000 hectolitres of its famous ale every year, which is distributed throughout British and international markets It is the only Trappist brewery in the UK and one of just nine worldwide

“It’s rare for a Trappist brewery to launch a new addition to its core range,” Peter explained “Our very premise is predicated upon the solemn production of the ales synonymous with our order, with Trappist beers having earned their reputation from their centuries-long tradition of Cistercian ale-making, using closely guarded recipes in a timehonoured process Tynt Meadow Blond has been created to pay homage to this tradition, representing both a classical interpretation, yet uniquely Trappist take

One-stop container shop for a reason

THIELMANN kegs are industry gold standard containers for beer transport, preservation, and storage

Built from premium stainless steel, our kegs range in size from 5L to 100L and are available in a wide range of formats and sizes Our industry-leading manufacturing processes produce kegs of the highest quality materials (AISI 304 / AISI 316 austenitic stainless steel), delivering unrivaled hygiene standards and protecting your beer from UV light, pollution particles, and corrosion. THIELMANN kegs leave the organoleptic properties of your beverage unaltered, regardless of its handling and climatic conditions THIELMANN is truly your one-stop container shop for a reason; not only can we offer you kegs

of the highest quality, but we also provide a myriad of solutions for storing and emptying large quantities of beer and cleaning and servicing solutions

Meet our multipurpose Aseptic IBCs for fermentation, carbonation, yeast propagation, and more, made from the highest quality non- wearing stainless steel For beer line cleaning solutions, our Cleaning Can pressure vessel delivers optimum results, available in a variety of sizes and formats

THIELMANN boasts a wealth of experience in engineering, design, and manufacture of container solutions

Over time, the needs of our clients have changed dramatically, and now, their priority is sustainability

A stainless steel keg’s carbon footprint falls below that of single-use plastic

on this ever-popular mid-strength ale ”

While Tynt Meadow, with its amber hue and distinctive depth of flavour, is a classic strong, dark ale, its blond cousin is closely related in composition if not in style

“Tynt Meadow Blond uses the exact same ingredients as our famous Tynt Meadow, but it brings a zesty, sharper twist on the original classic,” said Peter “It carefully balances vanilla, mandarin and lemon with gentle hints of orange and sherbet

“After the solemn observance of Lent, Easter was the perfect time for us to introduce Tynt Meadow Blond, as we know it will pair perfectly with the lighter, brighter days of spring and summer ”

kegs after just twelve rotations, yielding 20%

lower carbon emissions in the 30 years of its useful life* Once the keg reaches the end of its life, stainless steel is 100% recyclable with no limit to the number of times the material can be reused

We are a founding member of the Steel Keg Association, a non-profit organisation that seeks to develop the market by highlighting steel kegs’ environmental and financial benefits

SHOWC ASE Containers

How to gain brand success in a changing market?

By Susan Ellison & Chloe Robinson, OPM Group

The brewing industry is evolving, health-conscious consumers want to be able to enjoy their favourite tipple, while keeping an eye on alcohol content, ingredients, and their wellbeing.

The rise of non-traditional beers such as low/no alcohol, low carb, low calorie, low purine and allergy friendly, are a great way to add variety and alternatives to your existing, well-loved beer portfolio Diversifying your range tickles the tastebuds of your existing loyal customers, making it suitable for every occasion, and introducing new clientele to your brand

Health drinks are beginning to branch out into the alcoholic market Drinks you wouldn’t traditionally expect to be alcoholic now have an additional kick Recent trends include gutfriendly hard Kombucha and fruit-infused beers. These changes have awakened cross industry brand collaborations, increasing brand awareness, exposure to new audiences and exciting promotional opportunities

How can OPM Group help you?

So, you’ve decided to take the leap and diversify your brand into this emerging market How do you make sure that your brand stays true to itself and stands out on the supermarket & bar shelves? Partner with OPM Group!

We are an independent, family-owned, label and flexible packaging printer, who have been a trusted supplier to the beverage industry for over 30 years We hold grade AA+ BRC grade for packaging materials, so you can rest assured that your bottle, can and keg labels are in safe hands

Our skills, expertise and passionate team help you to take your brand to the next level; with both flexographic and digital printing Our label solutions work seamlessly from bottling line to retail, home and even end of life recycling

Our digital press can get you to market smarter and faster with short runs and low lead times Perfect if you are just testing the waters with your new products Offering flexibility with multiple SKUs, multiple languages, seasonal and variable data/personalisation

Our flexographic offering is great for brands who know exactly what they

want and require a high volume

We can work with you to transform your label, with innovative design ideas such as peel-and-read, tear-off coupons, glow in the dark and scented ink to help you stand out

We can help you to build curiosity around your product with the incorporation of showstopping embellishments such as foiling, embossing, varnishes, and material choice

We know that sustainability is a priority to you, and we can offer recycle ready solutions such as water wash-off adhesive labels, and responsibly sourced alternative substrates’ cane fibre paper, bio-based PE and recycled content liners.

If you would like to make a splash with your beer alternatives

Our team are ready to hear from you!

Rawlings leads way in bespoke glass packaging design

Bespoke-designed glass packaging for your product offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance your brand's presence and appeal in the market.

Distinct brand identity and unique visual appeal not only reinforces your brand’s recognition, but also catches the eye of the consumer

Working together, Rawlings helps its clients develop their visual ideas and capture them in a comprehensive design brief Providing the client with an initial concept and technical specifications for discussion Rawlings offers a constructive review process and may suggest improvements for technical reasons to avoid potential problems during production, filling, labelling, or capping that could later increase costs. Making the most economical use of glass while ensuring a robust product that's fit for purpose, sustainability and

quality are key factors of the development, design and production process

Concept & Design Development

With the client’s input, Rawlings develops the chosen concept and finalises the technical drawings, typically using CAD modelling and 3D printing for fast prototyping At this stage the technical specification is validated prior to sample production

Once the design is approved by the client and everyone is happy, Rawlings organises sample moulds and manufactures a few hundred sample containers

These sample containers are used to:

• Check material quality, embossing and other intrinsic design features

• Test performance on filling lines and other equipment

• Trial proposed decorative techniques, labels and closures

• Packaging trials

The final stage is bulk production The production slot is booked, final moulds are delivered, and full-scale manufacture commences A final quality check is made before the finished containers are carefully packed and delivered to the client.

Have a bespoke design project in mind? Contact Rawlings to start the conversation

www

SHOWC ASE Containers

Beer Box Shop - bringing down costs for packaging essentials

DPL / Beer Box Shop is celebrating 10 years of producing and supplying packaging to the brewing industry.

Simon Hulse (Director) said, “It’s amazing to have been working in the most creative and collaborative industry for the last 10 years, and it feels like were only just getting started!” Moving to a new purpose-built warehouse allowed Beer Box Shop to extend its in-stock product range and the services the company provides to the brewing industry

“We’re always looking to develop our proposition; over the last 12 months we’ve added even more shipping and gift boxes to our in-stock range, we’re now providing free storage options for our customer ’s bulk packaging orders, we’ve launched a consolidated production project that allows us to supply full colour bespoke gift boxes with low minimum order quantities at low

prices, and we’ve launched a home fulfilment service to deliver our customers’ own online drinks orders ”

The new warehouse also means that Beer Box Shop is able to produce and store shipping and trade boxes in even higher volumes Larger volumes mean lower raw material costs and increased production efficiencies Simon commented, “Our core business has been built on efficiently producing big volumes of boxes so we can competitively supply all sizes of breweries, but our additional warehousing space is allowing us to take this to a whole new level and to pass on the savings to our customers ”

The consolidation of its raw material supply also means that Beer Box Shop can offer lower costs for the production of bespoke printed shipping and trade boxes too

Whether a customer needs 100 or 10,000 boxes, Beer Box Shop will

Small cap, big impact: How crown caps can elevate your beer brand

Josh Webster, Head of Marketing at Croxsons, the family-owned company that supplies glass packaging, explores branding opportunities for the beer industry.

In the world of packaging, every detail counts. From each choice you put your perfectly crafted recipe to the eyecatching bottle design, breweries strive to create a unique experience for their consumers Often overlooked however is a prime piece of brand real estate: the crown cap Branding is everything

It’s what I’ve been hearing in the industry and understanding the power of a well-designed crown cap can bring a greater shelf presence It's the final touchpoint, the silent ambassador that speaks volumes about your brand identity long after the last sip

Beyond its functional purpose of sealing the bottle, the crown cap offers a unique opportunity to enhance your brand in several ways

Firstly, consider the impact on shelf appeal In a crowded marketplace, a creative crown cap design can be the eye-catching element that differentiates your beer from the competition Think vibrant colours, playful graphics, or even custom embossing to make your product stand out Remember, in a split-second decision at the point of sale, visual impact is key

The crown cap is more than just a pretty addition; it's a canvas for your brand story Use it to showcase your brewery's name, logo, or even a playful mascot Limited-edition designs for seasonal brews or special collaborations can create a sense of collectability and excitement, further engaging your customers

Furthermore, consistent use of a welldesigned crown cap reinforces brand recognition Every time a customer opens your beer, they're reminded of the experience your brand offers This subconscious reinforcement strengthens brand loyalty and encourages repeat purchases

provide high quality packaging at low prices with the same great level of service - including next working day deliveries for in-stock items.

Heather Hulse (Director) said, “Where we can work closely with our brewery partners to plan their shipping and trade box requirements, we can provide them with further loyalty discounts and free of charge storage for their bulk packaging orders ”

Engaging designs can spark conversation and create a sense of community among your customers Limited edition designs can turn into collectors’ items and live long in the memory.

By investing in creative crown cap designs, you're not just sealing your beer; you're sealing the deal with your customers It's a small detail with a big impact, a powerful tool to elevate your brand and connect with your audience at every opportunity So, open up and let your crown caps tell your brand story – your customers are waiting to listen (and drink!)

SHOWC ASE Containers

Casks, credit, and cash

Casks, credit, and cash - three important items if you brew beer. Now more that ever brewers need to be careful how they invest in their business

NDL Keg Europe Ltd, a leading supplier of kegs, casks and brewing equipment to the brewing trade, has been working closely with Moorgate Finance to assist brewers who are looking to invest in their fleet of containers and brewing equipment

It’s important to grow your business at a sustainable rate, but like many industries the brewing business is full of peaks and troughs Sudden demand of your product puts strain on your fleet of kegs and casks and very few breweries have the funds to just go and purchase more when the need arrives

With this in mind, NDL has found a suitable partner in Moorgate Finance to offer brewers some great alternatives, to enable them to increase their fleet of kegs and spread the costs Renting is

one method used by many breweries, but isn’t always the right answer, especially when looking long term

We recently spoke with a small brewery that was spending £960 per month on rentals By purchasing the casks over a 5 year period they were able to bring this monthly cost down to just £197 39 a month Far more affordable, and allowed them to allocate the funds elsewhere in the business Also knowing that after the 5 years they will own the assets, which are branded in their own livery, and no longer have that particular cost at all

NDL Keg Europe Ltd has one of the widest range of kegs and casks offered to the brewery trade, and we speak with breweries of all sizes Moorgate Finance is actively helping us to make sure we give them the financial support they need in order to make their businesses grow.

A taste for more sustainable labels

With increasing competition for the consumer pound, it’s essential for brewers of all sizes to consider not only the quality of their products, but also their environmental impact.

In a world where sustainability is no longer a trend but increasingly becoming a necessity, every aspect of operations, including the labels, must be scrutinised, which is why more brewing and bottling companies are choosing WoodFilm® as their label substrate, enabling them to make a positive environmental statement without compromising on print quality or label performance

Developed by the paper mills of Scandinavia, WoodFilm® offers a number of benefits that resonate with brewers and environmentally conscious consumers alike

The first and potentially most significant of these is that the material is both renewable and sustainable, as the wood based ‘oils’ used to form the basis of either the white or clear Polyolefin WoodFilm® product, are extracted from a by-product of the wood pulp to paper

manufacturing process, meaning the label substrate is not only created using non-fossil-fuel based materials, making it easier to recycle through normal household waste streams, but it also utilises what would otherwise be a waste product

The whole manufacturing process, from the extraction of the wood-based oils, to the finished substrate leaving the suppliers warehouse, is independently ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) certified, further boosting WoodFilm®’s environmental credentials; whilst the environmentally conscious production process also enables brewers to significantly reduce their carbon footprint, as it reduces total Greenhouse Gas Emissions by up to 60%* compared to fossil-fuel based plastic alternatives; depending on whether the white or clear option is chosen

Of course, environmental benefits aren’t the only consideration when it comes to producing labels, so brewers will also be pleased to hear that WoodFilm® boasts exceptional print quality and performance capabilities, with its durability and resistance to moisture

making it ideal for the demanding conditions of the brewing industry, and a perfect alternative to their traditional fossil-fuel based counterparts

With this fantastic combination of sustainability, performance and consumer appeal, WoodFilm® is connecting brewers with their eco-conscious consumers on a deeper level whilst simultaneously improving their environmental credentials, making it the perfect label choice for brewers across the country

* Cradle-to-Gate on 1,000m2, based on ‘Life Cycle Assessment’ study in accordance with ISO 14040/44 and PAS2050 standards

Tom Roberts, Managing Director Moorgate Finance (left) & Justin Raines, Operations Manager NDL Keg Europe Ltd

How to attract customers with 'WOW' factor printed packaging SHOWC ASE Containers

In a vast ocean of popular products, your brand’s success hinges on the exhilarating challenge of finding a way to make a bold statement and stand out amongst competitors

Many brands are turning to ‘WOW’ factor printed packaging to catch a customer ’s eye Packaging with the ‘WOW’ factor has designs that are visually striking and eye-catching, incorporating vibrant colours, unique shapes and captivating graphics It’s packaging that is creative, protective and kind to the planet, while also providing a memorable and engaging unboxing experience for consumers, which will be irresistible to share on social media so your brand can be seen by millions worldwide

Functionality will always be an important part of the design and structure of packaging, but ‘WOW’ factor printed packaging is there to take the impact of packaging to the next level Below, we have cast our expert eyes over some of the main benefits of choosing ‘WOW’ factor printed packaging for your business

What gives packaging the ‘WOW’ factor?

You can add the ‘WOW’ factor to your packaging which can hugely impact your business’s branding efforts, helping your products leap off shelves and make a statement with eye-popping custom printing The look created through custom printed packaging boxes is a vibrant reflection of your brand’s personality, and this is often the first physical touch point a consumer will have with your brand Remember, as it takes only between 3 to 5 seconds for a consumer to notice a product on-shelf and decide to purchase (LinkedIn), first impressions really do count

Packaging that tells (or sells) a story Consistency is key, as they say, and that is certainly the case with product packaging and brand messaging It helps reinforce brand recognition among consumers, building trust and loyalty along the way. Each time your customers encounter your products, they're greeted with the same vibrant packaging and messaging that they've come to know and love

Customers often look for products that align with their core values Did you know that a whopping 75% of consumers are willing to switch brands if their values clash? (Consumer Goods Technology) That's right – shoppers want products that resonate with their beliefs, and they're not afraid to seek them out

When packaging tells a compelling story, suddenly, your product isn't just a purchase; it's a vital chapter in consumers’ own narratives and an extension of what they stand for They feel a connection, a unique bond, with the product This boosts brand loyalty and encourages them to buy again But they won’t then just buy from you; they champion your brand, spreading the word like wildfire to anyone who will listen If they are impressed with a product, it’s likely their friends will be too

Packaging that stops you in your tracks

Unleashing bursts of colour and creativity, printed packaging can transform simple products into shelf and screen showstoppers When it comes to eye-catching designs, litho printed packaging is one of the most popular choices for jaw-dropping visuals. Lithographic printing is high-end and high-quality and works perfectly for bespoke luxury packaging It’s an effective way of ensuring your product is showcased in all its glory

The power of printing techniques

There are a whole toolbox of tricks when it comes to printing techniques - such as embossing, debossing, foil stamping, holographic effects and scented inksthat can take your packaging to the next level These cardboard box printing techniques not only improve the visual appeal of the packaging, but also create an experience that dazzles the senses! Embossing and debossing, for example, add a tactile element to the packaging, allowing customers to physically feel intricate patterns

As well as printing techniques, packaging materials and textures add to the overall tactile experience for customers From the smooth elegance of matte finishes to the dazzling sheen of gloss, every texture and material tells a story of its own, adding a delightful

twist to the unboxing adventure

Adding interactive elements

By incorporating interactive elements into printed packaging designs, you can create unique experiences that captivate consumers' attention and leave a lasting impression A significant 88% of businesses are gearing up to implement interactive packaging in the future (Packaging News), which will help them to stand out for doing something different, whilst showcasing their business as one keen to go beyond the box

VIP - very important packaging

Printing personalised and limited-edition design elements on packaging is a great way to grab customers’ attention They create a sense of exclusivity, giving someone the feeling of FOMO if they don’t snap the product up immediately. Limited edition releases - which can be linked to special occasions, brand collaborations or promotions - add an element of scarcity and create a sense of urgency, while boosting the item’s perceived value After all, who could resist the thrill of snagging a one-of-akind treasure before it's gone for good?

By embracing environmentally responsible materials and printing practices, you're not just appealing to a niche market – you're tapping into a whole army of environmentally savvy consumers who are hungry for green products Using eco-friendly printing techniques contributes to reducing the environmental footprint of printed packaging Sustainability isn’t just a trend – it’s now an expectation of consumers, and they are increasingly drawn to brands that showcase a commitment to reducing their impact on the planet

How to find the wow

Get ready to unleash the "WOW" with printed packaging that'll make heads turn and jaws drop! Here at Saxon Packaging (part of the Smurfit Kappa Group), we're all about bringing the fun to your packaging game and helping you stand out from the crowd like never before

FO CU S UK Distilling

28 bottles and counting...

Enterprise Tondelli was delighted when it was awarded the contract to supply the heart of line 4 with a new blower/filler/capper and infeed conveyors to provide probably the most flexible medium speed line ever!

Loch Lomond Distillery can trace its roots back over 200 years Today, it crafts three distinctive whisky styles including its flagship Scotch single malt brand, Loch Lomond Whiskies; its single grain whisky, Spearhead made from 100% malted barley and distilled in a copper coffey still; and its latest creation Noble Rebel, a range of blended malt Scotch whiskies that seek to break the norm by combining new ideas with deep-rooted traditions in whisky making Enterprise Tondelli has been working at the bottling plant of Loch Lomond since 2004 and has supplied much of the equipment on site ranging from high speed flask and cylindrical bottle filling to depalletising, shrink wrapping, palletising, conveying and labelling

This new project has a bottle filler that can handle from 500 ml PET bottles up to 1 75 litre glass jugs along with square, cylindrical and rectangular bottles all on the same line Additionally the line can handle 11 different closures that are automatically applied These include 8 different sizes of “T” shaped corks and 3 different sizes of ROPP caps.

Due to the variety of bottles sizes etc to be handled, a bulk bottle reception mattress table was supplied that can

accommodate 2 layers of bottles allowing greater autonomy in the semi-automatic depalletising process Depalletised bottles are single-lined by a pressureless combiner which has the capability for many different programmes depending on the bottle This handles both cylindrical and some of the shaped bottles

As already mentioned, the area is quite compact so special disc type bends were used with quick changeover system to accommodate the very differing bottle sizes using quick adjustment levers No change parts are required thus allowing quicker size changes The conveyors are controlled from the Eurosistemi stainless steel panel which has a touch screen hmi for menu selection

The bottles are fed to a monobloc blower/filler/capper which has a number of interesting features With 28 bottles the traditional change parts would have consisted of at least 11 different components including starwheels, wormscrew etc. However Enterprise supplied an adjustable starwheels system and universal wormscrew that allows most of the bottles to be handled with no bottle handling change parts at all, except the rinser grippers

Fill level on the low vacuum filler is set from the operator panel and each bottle has its own pre-set value for

Return of Craft Distilling Expo

The Craft Distilling Expo is back for 2024, Wednesday 2nd & Thursday 3rd October 2024, with tickets available soon.

The UK's number one conference for distilling; providing education, supplier exhibition and networking will once again open it’s doors at the Truman Brewery, London On Wednesday 2nd and Thursday 3rd October we are bringing together the world’s preeminent Master Distillers, still makers, packagers and marketers, professionals

and connoisseurs in an Exposition and Conference offering talks, workshops and displays.

Exhibitor stands and sponsorship packages are currently on sale The deadline to book is the 15th July However, anyone who books before the 15th June will receive a 10% early bird discount

For the 2024 Craft Distilling Expo the organisers have decided, in an effort to help you make the most of your visit, to have a more concise

repeatability A low level cap hopper and fltted belt elevator feeding the dual purpose capping turret ensures safe working for the operators A pre-set bottle counter allows them to set how many bottles to produce before the filler stops and advises batch complete

The conveyor layout produced in the UK office of Enterprise Tondelli also meant that one operator was centrally located to monitor several aspects of the line reducing wasted movement The machine will fill both brown and white spirits as well as some new ranges of products such as flavoured liquors To ensure good hygiene, CIP cups were also supplied to allowing machine cleaning without medium going to waste or creating a slip hazard on the floor Stop press – another two bottle sizes are now being handled bringing the total to 30 different bottle shapes and sizes! Enterprise Tondelli have been working in the industry since 1977 and supplying equipment in over 40 countries. This wealth of experience ensures Enterprise add something to all their projects ”

schedule of talks

This will largely be made up of 25 minute sessions focusing on particular subjects that are relevant to distillers today. This should allow attendees to get to the heart of pertinent issues whilst also having more time to interact with our vendors, who are an invaluable source of knowledge

FO CU S UK Distilling

A more sustainable future for packaging

Croxsons, a family-owned company that supplies glass packaging and closures, is always exploring sustainable initiatives in the operations process.

At Croxsons, we have always had sustainability in our heart With over 150 years in the glass industry, we’re embracing sustainable practices in all aspects of our operations process Our customers demand the highest sustainability standards from us and we are more than happy to rise to that challenge

We have all kinds of initiatives in place to make a positive difference, from working with a furnace powered by low carbon hydrogen, renewable fuels and electricity, to planting over 150,000 trees to help reverse the effects of deforestation

Let’s take a closer look at some key initiatives for us and across the industry

Net zero bottles at scale Plans are already developed and in-process to produce in furnaces powered by 100% renewable electricity, as well as furnaces utilising hydrogen

Having already trialled alternative fuels such as 100% biogas, we have delivered bottles with an estimated 99% reduction in carbon footprint, but with the same benchmarks for quality and performance

Green energy

We are switching to green and renewable energies, a key move in reducing our environmental impact

Across the glass sector, measures to reduce combustion emissions by 2028 include increased use of cullet, oxyfuel combustion and liquid biofuels

At Croxsons, we aim to continue increasing our use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) glass up to 90% This move will mean energy savings over melting virgin raw materials, reduced CO2 emissions and other environmental benefits like the infinite recyclability of glass (unlike plastic alternatives)

150,000 trees planted

To mark our 150th anniversary and take

a huge step in our carbon footprint reduction efforts we funded the planting of 150,000 trees through environmental services company Ecologi Trees are one of the best carbon capture and storage containers

Across the glass packaging industry, we are building sustainability into our processes from the very start to the very end We are not only making better bottles We are making a better tomorrow too

A natural look for West Highland Spirits

West Highland Spirits is a company that aimed to achieve two things Firstly, it wanted to create a range of spirits full of flavour that reflects its Scottish heritage and the beauty of the surroundings in the Highlands Secondly, it wanted a creative brand design that showcases the natural habitats and wildlife of the surrounding environment

West Highland Spirits recognised it needed to take drastic measures to compete in the high-quality Craft Spirits market Although highly confident in the quality of its products, it required a brand design that matched the craftsmanship of its products To stand out in the marketplace, West Highland Spirits also understood that they needed to push the boundaries of creative design

As a result, the company engaged the services of LemonTop Creative, who

have their own LemonTop Gin and were already known to be experts in creating brand designs that stand out on the shelf With the knowledge and confidence, the LemonTop creative team could provide the Spirits company with a brand design and a range of bottle designs that align with its ethos of caring for the Highland environment while standing out among its competitors wherever they were displayed

www.croxsons.com/about

The new West Highland Spirits brand has been designed with creativity and innovation in mind The bottle designs are a perfect blend of modernity and traditional craftsmanship, appealing to those who seek uniqueness These designs reflect the brand's pride in tits Highland roots, the love for the

environment, and the quality of the Highland produce it makes These beautifully illustrated designs are a testament to West Highland Spirits' commitment to standing out from the competition and are on sale via their website https://www westhighlandspirits com

For further information:

FO CU S UK Distilling

Cardiff Distillery installation for Microcan

UK manufacturing company

Microcan has recently completed an installation at Cardiff Distillery in Wales

Microcan has a range of machines from 700 cph to 4,000 cph or 8,000 cph with the twin CP10 option Now we have the partnership with STM we can offer up to 30,000 cph with full rotary options

We have the ability to provide a full turnkey project from design to installation and support the customer onwards with our vast experience of packaging many different products for the last nine years

With the consistent expansion of our premises, people, equipment and supply partners, we are now in a position to take on much bigger projects After partnering with Mainland Canning from the Netherlands and STM in Poland, we can offer much larger canning systems

Since Microcan was formed and delivered it’s first machine back in 2017 we have been on an incredible rollercoaster ride of ‘design, test, deliver, repeat’ Everything started around 2010 when we began to build brewhouse controls under the banner of Retro Control Retro Control was formed by Warren Stanley in 2009 with the idea of

having a small controls business working from home

Having been given the opportunity to build some cask washer control panels we quickly moved into full brewhouse controls and have built and installed more than 150 systems across the UK

When looking for another avenue to generate cashflow, Warren set up a mobile canning business called CAN IT Mobile

Canning and purchased a Canadian canning line Warren started mobile canning in 2015 working seven days a week trying to build the business, travelling countrywide on a very steep learning curve It was during this period that he realized the canning boom was just starting and there was a buzz around canning machines, and the lack of choice. No one in the UK was supplying a craft machine and Warren believed there was an opportunity to develop a good quality value-for-money machine

The concept of Microcan was created and the hard work really started Any spare time between control panels and canning was spent prototyping canning machines Two years later and after a lot

of blood sweat and tears, Microcan had developed tested and delivered it’s first CL5v1 canning line Fast forward seven years and here we are, over 350 machines delivered across 19 countries

Recent equipment installations include Real Drinks and Seven Bro7hers

Microcan has seen excellent growth with a small but amazing team of very talented and committed people We have also established a great distributor network in various regions around Europe

Here at The Bag In Box Shop UK, we have developed a range of High ABV Bag In Box solutions with our Co-Packers SCS to offer 3L, 5L & 10L High ABV Bag In Box solutions.

Using genuine VITOP bags and taps our system allows you to refill bottles in bars meaning you can cut down on glass usage, breakages and reduce you’re carbon footprint

Our 5L Digital Printed High ABV packs can be printed and delivered from as little as £0.40p per litre and at the same time a standard wine bottle produces 875kg of CO2 compared to 107kg CO2 for a 5L Bag In Box solution

Over the last 12 months BIB UK and SCS have seen a large increase in projects and orders for small and medium High ABV customers looking to move into Bag In Box, this solution allows customers to supply bars and

pubs a reduced number of glass bottles which can then be refilled on site from the Bag In Box system, removing glass bottles from the supply change and allowing High ABV suppliers to ship less often to customers reducing transport costs In partnership with SCS, an independent co-packer with a bonded warehouse we are now able to offer the complete service from packaging to finished product

From lab solutions to liquid development, SCS offers a turn-key solution for virtually all beverage categories We have one of the most versatile packing and processing operations in the country, so whether you are looking to put your spirits into bag-in-box, RTDs into kegs or soft drinks into bottles, our expert technical team will find the right solution for you

With contract filling MOQs of 1,000lts, precise carbonation up to 6 0g/lt, processing options including both flash

pasteurisation and Velcorin, and a site wastage of 4%, your product is in safe hands

Get in touch to see what we can do for your new or established brand

If you are interested in exploring refill packs contact The Bag In Box technical team, or for more information on contract packing at SCS please contact Tom Ebdon, on the email addresses below

FO CU S UK Distilling

Distilling explained in a nutshell

Nick Brading of Murphy & Son walks you through the process...

The process of distilling is one whereby a liquid mixture is separated into its singular components by means of heating, usually boiling, then condensing the vapours returning them to a singular, purified, liquid state by collecting them at a cooler temperature

It is known from the archaeological record that distilling was practised by the Ancient Greeks and the Ancient Chinese in the production of perfumes, alcohol and the desalination of water Most commercial distillation produces alcohol, namely ethanol, that can be matured, blended and packaged for consumption. There are hundreds of variants of the final drink, defined geographically by the materials and methods available and the particular taste of the target market The most famous distilled product in the world is arguably whisky which can be described through the three M’s; Materials, Method and Maturation Materials

The base materials for whisky production are barley malt, water and yeast Barley is a cereal crop that prefers lighter soil, dryer rainfall and cooler growing conditions as found in

the UK, particularly east of the Pennines Barley varieties are bred specifically for malting Water used for “cutting” the neat spirit after distillation is often naturally collected from a spring rather than mains, adding individual character to the final liquor Yeast is a naturally occurring microbe well known for its ability to convert sugars into alcohol Different strains of yeast are used to make different styles of spirit, e g gin, rum, vodka and whisky Fermentis Distilling Yeast ArchivesMurphy and Son

Method

After harvest, barley is malted, a process of steeping, germination and kilning to deliver a dried grain to the distiller for the next stage Malting changes the starchy endosperm in each grain into fermentable sugar The distiller crushes the grain to a coarse grist, mashes with hot water then elutes the cooled sugary worts to a washback Yeast is introduced and allowed to ferment the sugars to alcohol The whole contents of the washback are distilled using heat which drives the volatile alcohol out of solution as a vapour These vapours are condensed then collected and held in various vessels for subsequent blending

The Craft Distilling Business Limited

We design, manufacture, and install custom distillation equipment for distilleries and breweries venturing into craft spirits. Whether you're starting or scaling up, we develop systems that fit your space and budget, with options starting at £11k

We also offer a comprehensive range of support services Services offered include:

Operational Training

Comprehensive and ongoing support is provided to clients to ensure they are comfortable operating their equipment and producing their chosen spirits.

Recipe Development

Matt Servini, a recognised expert in the industry, assists clients in developing their own spirit recipes,

many of which are award-winning and can be exclusive to them

Licensing Support

The company assists clients in navigating the complexities of obtaining necessary licenses from HMRC and local authorities, ensuring legal compliance and readiness for production.

Health & Safety Training & Documentation

We provide a standard operating procedure for every piece of equipment and develop risk assessments in line with the requirements of your setup

Consultancy

Flexible consultancy services are available either on a project basis or as individual purchases, with pricing structured per project or by day rate.

Maturation

The alcohol or raw whisky at this stage is collected in wooden barrels, typically oak and held for at least three years, often more It evaporates slightly in this time, developing oxidation flavours but also picking up flavour and colour from the wood which is influenced by what the oak barrel has previously stored, e g sherry The alcohol is still very strong, in excess of 65% so when it is required for bottling, it is cut to around 40% with spring water which delivers another layer of complexity to flavour

Nick Brading is part of Murphy & Son’s technical support team, previously working as a Master Brewer for Shipstones, Ruddles and Carlsberg International and is a specialist in spirits, so knows a thing of two about the challenges brewers and distillers face from mash to glass

Nick focuses most of his efforts supporting customer predominately in the North of England, Scotland and Ireland However he is always available to help with queries sent to techsupport@murphyandson co uk .

www.murphyandson.co.uk

FO CU S UK Distilling

BRITANX in action at UK rum distillery, Drop Works

BRITANX, the processing brand from UK stainless steel manufacturer Fabdec ltd, has supplied 14 vessels and plate heat exchangers to Drop Works, Europe’s largest rum distillery, located within Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire.

Founded by industry expert, Lewis Hayes, the brand was inspired by cultural movements such as Britpop, and is positioned as a new genre of British rum (coined as Brit-rum)

The aim behind DropWorks, and the inspiration for its name, is the introduction of limited edition releases of rum, named ‘Drops’, using a fermentation and distillation process to create different styles of rum The idea is that, alongside its core range of products, everyone can find a rum they love

range bespoke copper equipment is used in the distillation process

Lewis Hayes, founder and owner of DropWorks said rum has so much more to offer the world than what it does at the moment

“Having our own distillery allows DropWorks full control of the process from start to finish,” he says “Meaning we aren’t burdened by limitations existing elsewhere The Rum Distillery houses a colossal collection of copper clad equipment, including the first double retort still in England which has a 1,500 litre capacity

Clear Drop Rum is produced selecting only the highest quality cuts from a long slow distillation process, the first product Drop contains rich flavours of fresh blueberries, vanilla ice cream and banana created from DropWorks own cultivated yeast strain, Trinity Yeast, which, says DropWorks, is the world’s first three strain symbiotic yeast

The DropWorks Distillery creates Clear Drop Rum using three custommade, bespoke stills including a Double Retort still which is the first of its kind in England, alongside the two different raw materials - Molasses and Organic Cane Juice Honey - which are fermented, distilled and blended on site Additionally, Clear Drop Rum is smooth due to the excessive copper interaction and elongated reflux afforded by a deflagmator at the top of an eight plate column

Since 2020, DropWorks has received £1 8m in private funding which has been invested into the distillery, flavour development and top of the

“This kind of still is rare in the Caribbean, let alone the Sherwood Forest! Double Retort stills have a magical ability to turbo charge the aromatics of a distillation, which means we can dial the flavour all the way up ”

The DropWorks Distillery, spans 17,000 sq ft production facility, and a further 8,000 sq ft barrel store and three mile underground tunnel for storing the casks, allowing for a long consistent maturation and three different barrel ageing environments The brand new facility can now produce up to two million bottles of rum a year and up to ten barrels of rum a day

The production facility includes 14 vessels and plate heat exchangers from BRITANX, the processing brand from UK stainless steel manufacturer, Fabdec ltd From mixing tanks, to storage and cooling tanks, with capacities ranging from 3,000 litres to 7,000 litres, BRITANX offered bespoke designs to suit the Distillery giving complete flexibility

BRITANX from Fabdec offers high quality hygienic stainless steel vessels to the Food, Beverage and Processing industries With over 60 years’ experience, all manufacturing is from our state-of-the-art 65,000sq ft facility in Shropshire Specialising in

the design and manufacture of bespoke solutions, our in-house design team can tailor to customer requirements by accommodating any onsite layout or restrictions. All vessels are expertly produced using the very latest technologies in welding, polishing and testing. This includes our very own and the UK’s only laser welded dimple plate machine This enables us to produce and test our own heating and cooling jackets in house All claddings are fully welded and 85mm of injected polyurethane insulation comes as standard

All pressure vessels are designed to PD5500 and both the vessel and jackets come with all pressure test certification To complement the vessels, we manufacture a number of ancillary items, such as Plate Heat Exchangers, in line carbonation, hop dosing and more

Adds Lewis Hayes, “At The DropWorks Distillery we have invested heavily in producing bespoke products which allows us to make Rum that is as light as Vodka, fruit driven as Cognac, funky as tequila, as smoky as Mezcal, as oaky as Whisky or as spiced as Gin. All without the need for additional flavourings. The team have decades of experience in distilling spirits and are committed to continuously bringing new and innovative rum products to the market through new processes and ways of flavouring products ”

For further information:

SHOWC ASE Branding

We asked companies supplying the following products and services to let us know something about themselves.... l Logo and image design, corporate branding on clothing, promotional literature, and other marketing material, including company websites

A magical makeover of Welsh brewer Tomos Watkin

The new owners of Welsh brewing icon Tomos Watkin have unveiled a new brand identity after enlisting the services of the brewing industry’s design specialists, LemonTop Creative.

Inspired by the magical tales of dragons and wizards that echo through the wild Welsh valleys, the brand makeover produced by LemonTop Creative has given Tomos Watkin a fresh, new look to start the next chapter in its life

Founded in 1996, the Tomos Watkin brand has been rejuvenated after brewers Joelle and Sarah Drummond, who also set up Drop Bear Beer Co in 2019, bought the brewery in August 2023

The enchanting Welsh valleys and their mystical stories of dragons and sorcerers served as a source of inspiration for the fresh brand identity that LemonTop’s talented team created for the brewery The new owners of the brewery wanted to captivate the modern-day beer drinkers while also commemorating its legacy, so they allowed the brewing industry’s design specialists to let their creative spirits wander as they created a magical makeover of the brand The relaunch not only celebrates the brand's heritage, but also creates a path forward to an exciting future for Tomos Watkin as a

leading light in Welsh brewing

Tomos Watkin’s latest range of beers includes traditional favourites Cwrw Haf, Blodwen and Magic Lagyr, with two new additions, Dragon’s Keep IPA and Miner ’s Pride, intended to entice new customers Stouts and IPAs have both grown in popularity over the last couple of years and the new owners were delighted to have these styles as additions to the core range, updating the range of beers they offer and increasing the potential for growth

Director of sales and marketing for Tomos Watkin, Joelle Drummond, worked closely with LemonTop’s creative team on the new brand identity

Having grown up in Swansea Joelle was already familiar with Tomos Watkin Brewery and wanted to further develop the essence of the brand’s history She worked with LemonTop on the branding and promotion of Drop Bear Brewing, so she knew the agency would be able to help her start a new chapter with Tomos Watkin

The LemonTop team used their illustrative skills and let their imaginations run free as they created a brand with an imaginative and magical vibe, featuring wizards, farmers, miners, and cockle pickers, all tied together by the famous Welsh red dragon Using the dragon as a unifying character created a link for the full range of label designs,

pump clips and packaging The brand also incorporated ‘easter egg’ elements swapping from one to the other, creating a continuous and captivating theme

Tomos Watkin Brewery was excited to unveil the new brand identity that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Wales The refreshed visual identity features stunning imagery that perfectly represents the unique spirit of each beer and the emotions it evokes

The LemonTop team have put great emphasis on showcasing this imagery prominently through a series of beautifully designed beer bottles, pump clips and packaging that are all mesmerising and captivating Each bottle tells a unique story that not only captures the essence of the beer but also celebrates the brewery’s rich Welsh heritage

St Austell Brewery has unveiled a new look for its flagship IPA, Proper Job, which hit supermarkets across the UK from March 2024

St Austell Brewery worked with longterm partners Thirst to revitalise the leading 5 5%abv brand Refined through heartfelt handcraft, Proper Job’s name is amplified with pride whilst its crisp green has been vibrantly refreshed

This modern visual identity brings to life this distinctive story across premium pump clips, bespoke glassware and brand world, reinvigorating the brand’s superior quality for drinkers old and new The inspiration behind the rebrand was

to fuse heritage and heartfelt craft with relevance for today’s market It features a striking new typeface and Proper Job’s iconic green is more prominent to maximise stand out. The new lookwhich was delivered by design agency, Thirst - is being supported with the brand’s biggest ever marketing investment – a multi-channel campaign which will launch in the spring

Laura McKay, St Austell Brewery’s Marketing & Communications Director, said: “Just like its name, we’ve spent over a year perfecting the beer ’s new look and testing it with beer drinkers and fans of the brand Our investment in the brand is all about honouring Proper Job’s loyal drinkers with a design that

doesn’t stray too far from its roots, as well as reaching new audiences with its fresh look and feel – there’s absolutely no change to the much-loved IPA’s brewing recipe “Proper Job isn’t about doing things differently, it’s about doing them right, an ethos we’re proud to have carried throughout this rebrand ”

Rebrand for New Wharf Brewing Company

A comprehensive rebrand for a brewery in Maidenhead, Berkshire, including brand strategy and naming, through to visual identity, packaging design and vehicle livery, has been delivered by The Food Brand Guys.

New Wharf is a progressive independent brewery with a passion for great beer Disillusioned with monolithic beer companies, it set out on a journey to set a new standard in craft brewing

The name, New Wharf, is derived from a historical name for the riverside area at Maidenhead Bridge where the town was built

Enjoy the journey

The craft beer category has shifted from cult favourite to mature market. As the supermarkets become more comfortable with the category, we begin to see genuine opportunities for independent brands to make it onto the shelves Our story plays on the idea of a journey to faraway places, the notion of adventure; exploring new tastes and flavours

Naming strategy

The product naming strategy builds on the journey metaphor, reflecting the brewery’s curious and progressive nature; always looking to explore and create something their customers will love The visual identity is designed to celebrate this attitude, with bold colours and strong imagery featuring across the range

Product packaging

The journey theme flows through the packaging design, where each beer has its own story and a tale to tell The New Wharf monogram serves as a backdrop to the story, with different characters and creatures combining to create exciting and inviting illustrations, all inspired by movie characters, storytellers and exotic locations.

The new beer branding has been really well received, creating new opportunities for the brewery and driving the brand into new markets The quality of the beers has resulted in some excellent reviews, so keep an eye out for New Wharf

The Business of Branding by Myles Pinfold

As any business owner knows, balancing the financials is an imperative to ensure future survival and success

Whilst branding and promotion may not always be high on the budget agenda, especially when trying to manage inflationary factors such as wages and materials costs, when it comes to budget allocation it can often be the critical success factor Like any business, it is important to align your marketing budget with your business objectives and optimise long and short-term brand planning

The econometrics for budget optimisation suggest a good rule of thumb is to invest between 5% and 10% of turnover on promotion to gain the highest return on investment The temptation will always be to go for the lower percentage, whilst the reality will depend on the current state of your brand and its ability to deliver a competitive advantage A simple technique to assess the effectiveness of your brand is to ask, if you took your logo off your current packaging

and communications, would you still be recognised ?

The next step is to optimise that investment and work out how much of your budget to spend on long-term brand building versus short-term promotional activation Another good rule of thumb would be 60% on brand and 40% on activation In the case of the brewing sector, probably only 20% of brewers are fully brand fit and are properly investing in their brand, which means that there is a lot of catching up to be done for the many

There is often a lack of proper brand planning and a short-term approach –it is important to think beyond the 12-month annual cycle and apply a longer-term strategy. The evidence is clear, if you plan wisely and invest properly in your brand, you will make more money In the words of Benjamin Franklin, if you fail to plan, you are planning to fail and he knew a thing or two about planning, as well as enjoying the odd tipple

The proof of the pint is in the drinking Or in this case, don’t just take my

word for it, track your ROI and see for yourself how, in the right hands, your brand can make the difference between success and failure However, be warned, if you don’t get you brand basics right in the first place, it’s as good as pouring money down the drain.

As specialists in brand building for the brewing sector, WPA Pinfold has been awarded over 48 design effectiveness awards – helping create up to 300% sales increases and significant ROI

Myles Pinfold is brand and strategy director at WPA Pinfold, he has in depth insight into the world of beer branding and has written extensively about it too If you would like to discuss how your brand can survive and thrive in today’s crowded and fragmented market, please get in touch

Fresh approach for Lords Brewing Co SHOWC ASE

An award-winning brewer of craft ales based in Golcar, Huddersfield, Lords Brewing Co is building on the success of its brand – as well as the appointment of a new management team, the culmination of an investment programme over several years –by launching a root and branch rebrand of its business.

The new branding - produced in conjunction with Huddersfield-based branding agency, Mindlabs Media - is symbolising a fresh approach for Lords, bringing a more modern and uniformed look across the core range beers (Lords Lager, Brock, Corax, Reynard, Malamute and Sanglier) as well as monthly specials

The new designs are a play on a “country Lord” theme and the regular people and animals who served them They represent a modern, “steam punk” take on these themes, and are

designed to bring the Lords brand up to date, with a more uniform, instantly recognisable look across bar-room real-estate

To herald the rebrand launch, Lords is also starting to produce more craft beers in keg, with the unveiling of new exclusive beers in March demonstrating a considered shift, with Malamute Session IPA now available in keg as well as cask for the first time

Lords is also releasing three limited edition brews –

• Sharecropper Saison - 4 2%

• The Rising Imperial Stout - 10 5%

• Thresher Wheat Beer - 5 0%

Lords Brewing Co was started back in 2015 by three brother-in-laws with a passion for brewing and beer Based in Golcar near Huddersfield, Lords started as a cuckoo brewery brewing out of Golcar Brewery

From these small beginnings Lords quickly grew and moved into Heath

House Mills at the end of 2017 into our own brewery

Over the last nine years

Lords has grown steadily selling beer across the UK

Lords Lager h become a permanent line in a number of venues and is one of the flagship beers brewed by Lords

By August 2023, the then team had taken Lords as far as they could and it was time to move onto pastures new

A new management team was appointed to take over the day-to-day running of Lords and to take the brewery forward

Wrexham Lager Co unveils major brand refresh

The Wrexham Lager Beer Co, the oldest lager brewery in Great Britain, has unveiled a major brand refresh across its existing range, marketing collateral, merchandise, and new product formats

The refresh - undertaken by Manchester-based creative agency, Mojofuel - comes at an exciting time for the award-winning brewer following the spotlight on Wrexham since the launch of ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ on Disney+, which has helped to deliver incremental growth for the business

Building on its rich heritage but with a contemporary twist, the brand refresh includes a bold and simplified logo, evolved colour palette and iconography, new labelling, new lifestyle and product photography, and complete modernisation of its key marketing touchpoints

The new look has been designed to be more in keeping with the modern beer market while maintaining The Wrexham Lager Beer Co’s own unique style statement It features a

stronger, brighter, and more impactful colourway, which will deliver greater standout on shelf, with the brand’s iconic blue evolved on the Lager and a premium black now adorning the Export range

With country of origin playing a significant role in purchase consideration, the brand has maintained but modernised its brewery and Welsh dragon iconography, while also including new premium dragon embossing to reaffirm a sense of provenance that will resonate with both national and international audiences

The brand refresh will appear across The Wrexham Lager Beer Co’s Lager and Export ranges, including the existing 330ml bottle in different pack formats, 5L Keg and on-trade font badges

Furthermore, The Wrexham Lager Beer Co is also extending its refresh across a brand new 440ml can format in both the Lager and Export In a

slight differentiation from its bottles, kegs and font badges, the cans include large vertical logos for extra standout and are already being rolled out to the business’ existing customer base

Since his recent appointment as CEO of The Wrexham Lager Beer Co, industry specialist James Wright has embarked on months of considered research and development to create this new impactful brand identity

He said: “This is a major step in the brand’s next phase of growth and businesses development, and we believe it will have a significant impact across our current and prospective routes to market ”

Then advertise your position on the UK’s first dedicated brewing jobs board. Brewing Jobs has already attracted more than 14,000 users to this free-to -use platform

contact us today at info@brewing-jobs.co.uk or visit www.brewing-jobs.co.uk

Drinks manufacturer ’s new 1ltr syrup bottle line

Simpsons Beverages is now offering 1 litre syrup bottles for its flavoured syrups. The drinks manufacturer has added a new bottling line to its facilities as part of ongoing expansion which has seen it triple its production capacity in recent months.

To help brands find the right range of flavours for their markets, the drinks manufacturer is also offering Simpsons Beverages-branded core flavours, allowing stockists to trial flavours before launching their own-label equivalents (with an MOQ of 1000L)

The bottle is made from 100% PET with a HDPE cap, both of which are widely recycled/recyclable The new 1 litre syrup bottle creates a competitive pricepoint for brands, while offering a premium feel as a sleek, stylish container Compatible with screw-on pump dispensers, the bottles are usable both at home and in

commercial settings They are predominantly to be supplied white label, in bulk orders

Simpsons Beverages develops and produces syrups and concentrates for a wide range of drink types, including flavoured spirits, and premixed cocktails

The 1 litre syrup bottles can carry a wide range of flavoured syrups, from traditional fruit or nut flavours to bespoke and premium new creations Sugar-free recipes are also available

Caleb Simpson, Managing Director of said: “We’re really pleased to add this exciting new production line to our offering Using triple filtered water combined with the most popular or up-and-coming flavours and sharing industry insights on the latest drinks market trends, this is just another way we’re ensuring our customers can stay one step ahead ”

Development of the new bottling line is part of Simpsons Beverages latest

BarthHaas presents innovative water-based hop products

BarthHaas, the leading supplier of hop products and services, is expanding its innovative PHA (Precision in Hop Aroma) product range with a series of waterbased alternatives

As is the case with the entire range, the new variants enable high-quality beers and other hop-based beverages to be produced more efficiently and more profitably

Because PHA products are added after filtration, they make it easier to produce beers with different flavours from one single production stream

“This enables breweries to diversify their product portfolio and increase product efficiency at the same time,” explains Hannes Schneeberger, Head of Sales Management at BarthHaas “It saves time, money and resources Breweries that use our PHA products are way ahead of the competition ”

growth plans, which saw it commission a second manufacturing facility earlier this year

The fourth-generation family firm is now in its 90th year in business Brothers Caleb, Jason, Adrian and Jim now oversee a multi-million pound business supplying products to drink brands which are sold in supermarkets across the UK and by wholesalers globally

www.simpsonsbeverages.com For

The water-based line presented here is one of the most interesting developments in the PHA range It uses a special emulsification technique developed by BarthHaas that enables hop extracts to be dissolved in just water “It’s the ideal solution for customers who wish to avoid using other carriers such as ethanol or propylene glycol,” explains Dr Alicia Muñoz Insa, Technical Sales Manager at BarthHaas “This makes the PHAs the cleanest of all cleanlabel solutions ”

The PHA range was designed for producing lightly hopped beers and beverages such as lager, pilsner, light or alcohol-free beers, and hop water

Another advantage of all the PHA varietals is the fact that their storage and shipping costs are considerably lower than those of conventional hop

products. “Due to the low average dosage of five to 40 millilitres per hectolitre, the amount of product transported is very small With quantity options ranging from 20millilitre samples to 1,000-litre containers, we can meet the needs of any production facility,” says sales expert Hannes Schneeberger

“Our new PHA range offers brewers the tools to produce flavoursome high-quality beers and beverages easily and with absolute control,” underlines technical expert Dr Alicia Muñoz Insa

Not

Following his success in The Octagon, Conor McGregor is now challenging the biggest names in the brewing ring with Forged Irish Stout - big on flavour and bold as brass

They may be the ‘new kid on the block’, but they have got their eyes on the prize and won’t settle for second best. “They are not here to take part, they are here to take over.”

The Forged brewery is based in Glasnevin, Ireland and here it brews the ‘Forged Irish Stout’ and then packages it on its new Enterprise Tondelli canning line

Enterprise Tondelli is very pleased to be associated with this exciting project and has provided a complete packaging line that met all the challenges of packaging a world class nitrogenated stout The most significant is the filling process and the special requirements for the widget can To meet the challenge Enterprise Tondelli supplied a ‘state-of-the-art’ rotary Matrix volumetric can filler

For widget cans, the cans must first be purged by high pressure nitrogen supplied from a separately controlled manifold to reduce dissolved oxygen and aid in the widget preparation

Secondly a different pressure

Nitrogen is then used to counter pressure the cans before filling Cans are filled using individual flow meters mounted on the rotary carousel without the vent tube touching the product giving a very calm fill with no drips This also ensures the fill level in the can as too much beer will mean the widget is flooded with beer and not nitrogen when inverted All functions of the filling valve are controlled by electro pneumatically actuated valves so any regulation can be done from the panel during running, this includes de-pressurisation so that the correct amount of small bubble head is left on the can by controlling bowl pressures. Cans are immediately inverted on the seamer discharge to ensure that the widget is charged with nitrogen to give that lovely creamy cascade affect

The total line supplied by Enterprise Tondelli consists of a very compact automatic bulk can de-palletiser manufactured in stainless steel from EuroSistemi Srl High level conveyors feed to a gravity ionised air can blower This multichannel blower means that change over from one can size to another is by means of a pneumatically actuated gate Ionised air also means no water consumption thus reducing the environmental footprint of the line whilst maintaining product integrity

Located after the filler, Enterprise supplied a fill level and pressure check inspection system to ensure that nitrogen has been dosed.

A six-zone all stainless steel tunnel pasteuriser with very low water consumption was installed by

Enterprise. The low water consumption is achieved by all water from all zones and conveyors being collected and used in a ring main to recharge the pasteuriser with cooling water via a tower as required Energy is also saved by the use of plate type heat exchangers which are more reactive and used in a closed loop around each zone only The small reservoirs in each tank also ensure reduced water consumption along with low energy use as the water volume heated is comparatively small An easy to use touch screen allows the customer to easily add new recipes

Iain Wood, Operations Director at Forged Stout Production Ltd, said: “Before going with Enterprise we checked around, made reference visits and heard good things We have not been disappointed in our decision as they have followed the project with great diligence, both in planning, commissioning and ongoing support We would certainly use them again.”

The Forged Irish Stout project is just one of the latest by Enterprise who supply canning lines from 1,500 to 72,000 cans per hour and bottling from 600 to 60,000 bph

New labelling machine for Staffordshire Brewery

Willis European Limited has supplied and installed a new Sysmec 6- head Fully Automatic labelling machine for Staffordshire Brewery in Cheddleton, Leek.

The fully specced machine is fi ed with electronic cams which allows it to handle virtually any bo le shape

As a Contract Bo ler, Staffordshire Brewery is able to register every bo le and label configura on in the machine menu, and a simple

press of the bu on is all that is required to set the machine for a specific bo le and label dress

The machine has a maximum output of 6,000 Bo les/Hour, but is available with outputs from 4,000 to 50,000 Bo les/hour

A coding device is also fi ed to allow prin ng of Batch Codes and ‘Best Before’ dates

Atlanta showcases revolutionary robotics at LogiMAT

Pallet wrapping automation specialists, Atlanta, showcased a range of innovations at this year ’s LogiMAT exhibition - the international trade show for intralogistics solutions and process management which took place in March at Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre

This year, Atlanta unveiled two of its latest machines: the NEOS mobile robot pallet wrapper, featuring cutting-edge laser safety detection and blue spot projection, and the NOVA compact ring pallet wrapper operating with a small platform AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) transporting an order picked demo pallet

Atlanta is looking to revolutionise warehouse operations with the introduction of NEOS, a mobile robot pallet wrapper that is ‘redefining the standards of efficiency and automation in warehouse logistics’

NEOS stands out for its integration of the ARYA system, a patented technology that automates the entire wrapping process, eliminating manual intervention to attach the film to the pallet This innovation not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures consistency and safety, making it a pivotal advancement in semi-automatic

stretch wrapping technologies

NEOS is designed with a sleek, modern aesthetic that signifies a departure from traditional models, embodying a new era of design in warehouse automation Its robust features include a dual-motor PS pre-stretching carriage that minimises film consumption while maximising functional reliability, setting new benchmarks in the industry With an increased battery capacity of 120Ah and a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen interface for easy programming, NEOS is equipped to deliver ‘unparalleled’ performance

In addition, Atlanta was also

displaying the compact NOVA (pictured) with ‘close fitting’ guarding, not only emphasising a minimal factory footprint but also removing the need for drop off and pick-ups with the more traditional conveyorised alternatives This setup indicates Atlanta’s commitment to creating space-efficient, seamlessly integrated automation solutions Both represent a technological leap forward, positioning Atlanta at the forefront of automation solutions and redefining the future of warehouse wrapping

Pentair appoints UK channel partner for Sudmo

Pentair has appointed Valve & Process Solutions Ltd as the UK’s only authorised Channel Partner for Südmo Spares & Components

Following collaborative discussions with leading supplier to the UK process industries, Valve & Process Solutions Ltd , Pentair is delighted to announce that an authorised Channel Partner agreement has been made and which came into effect April 2024

Founded in 2005, Valve & Process Solutions Ltd specialises in the specification and supply of flow control equipment such as valves, actuators, switchboxes, positioners,

solenoids and ancillary equipment to the process industry The company is a valued stockist and distributor to businesses across the UK and worldwide, offering multi-product solutions for a wide range of industries tailored to their individual requirements

“With a proven reputation within the UK hygienic sector, we are delighted to partner with Valve & Process Solutions Ltd who are ideally positioned to support the Pentair Südmo spares & components business in the UK, providing our customers with a more streamlined efficient sales ordering process,” said Jamie Lambert, Südmo Sales

Manager, Europe

"I am thrilled to announce Valve & Process Solutions' appointment This strategic collaboration enhances our ability to deliver market-leading flow control solutions, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and providing unparalleled benefits to both our customers and Pentair ’s

“Together, we look forward to setting new standards in the process industry," said Steve Pearson, Founder of Valve & Process Solutions

CO2 self-sufficiency at Stewart Brewing NEWS Equipment

Since the beginning of 2023, Stewart Brewing has been running a system with 2x DALUM CO2 Recovery Unit Model Craft (15kg/h) and a 2 000kg LCO2 storage tank to accommodate its annual production of over 25.000hl of beer. Since the installation Stewart Brewing has not needed to procure any CO2

Dalum was approached by the former project manager from Stewart Brewing, Duncan Coombs, regarding a CO2 recovery project at the brewery. The primary goal was to achieve complete self-sufficiency and independence from gas suppliers

Stewart was one of many breweries that suffered during the CO2 shortage after the attack on Nordstream 2 Recognising the opportunities with CO2 recovery, Stewart Brewing decided to trust Dalum technology, even though it was entirely new for a craft brewery A significant factor in Stewart Brewing's success with the DALUM unit was a dedication to learning how to operate it During training sessions, almost all of Stewart Brewing's staff eagerly attended and actively participated

This commitment has resulted in seamless operation, enabling Stewart Brewing to handle most maintenance and service tasks on their unit, which is very commendable. Dalum provides DIY videos on its website for existing customers, along with bringing spare

part kits when coming out for an installation If there's an employee at the brewery with "black thumbs," servicing the unit should pose no issues

According to Dalum, the saying goes that if you can change the cylinder heads on a motorbike, you can service a DALUM CO2 recovery unit The company says it has never experienced an unsatisfied customer, and Stewart Brewing is a great success story, as the brewery has achieved its main goal already from the get-go

In the town of Davidston, another DALUM unit operates at The Cromarty Brewing Brewery Like Stewart Brewing, Cromarty Brewing aimed for self-sufficiency in their CO2 supply

“Having a smaller production capacity than Stewart Brewing, Cromarty Brewing opted for a system including our DALUM CO2 Recovery unit model Micro (5kg/h) and a 1 000kg LCO2 storage tank. Impressively, Cromarty Brewing achieved self-sufficiency from the outset, to the extent that they had to halt recovery operations due to their LCO2 storage tank reaching full capacity,” says a Dalum spokesperson

“Whenever we attend UK craft beer conferences, we can always count on a visit from Cromarty Brewing, an interaction we greatly value Cromarty enjoy engaging in conversations with visitors to our booth, which has proven to be fantastic for us

“We do have customers with even better business cases, such as Svaneke Brewery in Denmark, who utilize 25 000kg CO2/y but recovers 35 000kg CO2/y, leaving them with 10tonnes of surplus CO2 every year

They have decided to fill cylinders with their surplus CO2 to distribute it on the island of Bornholm to their brewpubs, restaurants and even other breweries

“This has also proved to be an incredibly good business case, especially due to their location on a very remote island in Denmark Based on our experiences, the cost of CO2 delivery to remote islands can reach up to 6 euros per kilogram, compared to producing your own CO2 for €0,07€0,21 /kg.”

Pictured: Dalum and Stewart Brewing representatives with the DALUM CO2 recovery unit

Anton Paar ’s craft beer analysing solutions

The Anton Paar Flex-Blend 3000 series gives brewers the ability to either carbonate, blend or both. The Flex-Blend has been designed specifically for discerning craft brewers

The Flex-Blend 3000 delivers the fastest continuous measurements of ABV, OE, and CO2 allowing for rapid control and adjustments of these parameters on the fly during the carbonation and blending process

Simple and powerful multiproduct management through an intuitive HMI allows for smart recipe management of multiple products which ultimately leads to improved consistency and

quality of product whilst at the same time improving speed of carbonation, improving product yield and reducing or completely alleviating the requirement for manual intervention during the carbonation and blending process Craft brewers can now unleash the full power of their creativity

Flex-Blend 3000 highlights include:

• High-tech sensors ensuring continuous, accurate measurements for superb quality control (e.g., precision of up to 0.02 % ABV and 0 05 g/L CO 2)

• Intelligent recipe management via integrated PLC with a touchscreen to simplify handling of multiple products

and production batches

• Factory Acceptance Test (FAT), performed in Austria, for coverage of the customer ’s full production spectrum

NEWS Equipment

Brewing Jobs celebrates a birthday and

new industry wide sponsors..

Brewing Jobs; the UK's first dedicated brewing jobs board, is celebrating its 3rd birthday with a refresh of the website, focusing even more strongly on the UK brewing sector, enhancing further its digital visibility.

After three years of sponsorship by Brew-School, the specialist brewing jobs board is now seeking several new industry sponsors to help continue this invaluable service to the international brewing industry

Brewing Jobs has attracted over 14,000 users to its unique free-to-use platform It now boasts some of the UK's biggest brewers as regular users

utilising its service

Over 4,000 job applications have been made for brewing positions since the jobs board's inception Chris Horne, founder of the website, comments: "We continue to enjoy massive support from the UK brewers and the increasing number of jobs being advertised on the Brewing Jobs Board is a testament to the continued resilience of the UK's brewing industry and the employment opportunities within it."

position or to enquire about sponsorship opportunities you can access the jobs board at the web and email addresses below

www.brewing-jobs.co.uk

For more details on the Jobs Board; whether to advertise a new brewing

New possibilities for cask handling from B&B Attachments

The KAUP Cask Handler 0 3T415W, available from B&B Attachments, provides new possibilities for internal transport logistics

This forklift truck attachment has transformed the way casks are handled, providing quick and effective transportation and movement of casks, whilst also minimising manual handling tasks throughout warehouses and cellars

Designed for working in confined spaces the 0.3T415W can handle stacked casks (both empty and filled). This unique forklift attachment can navigate casks through the narrowest of spaces and is able to turn them up to 180°, allowing casks to be lifted and placed to the left and/or right in the direction of travel

The attachment has an independent side shift which allows the KAUP Cask Handler to move laterally by 100mm, in addition, the carriage can move 320mm within the frame so that a total side-shift stroke of 420mm is readily available

The carrying rams are fitted with adjustable rubber rollers which allow handling of nearly all sizes and versions of wine and spirit casks The rams are fitted with mechanical rolling castors allowing the forklift operator to gently set down the cask, drive forward slowly, whilst rolling and mixing the cask at the same time Additionally, the Cask Handler attachment aids with the task of lifting and rotating casks stacked on blocks.

The KAUP Cask Handler is available throughout the UK from B&B Attachments, the leading forklift truck attachment company in the UK and Ireland

info@brewing-jobs.co.uk

Omnia acquires ACMI, SACMI Beverage and SACMI Labelling

Omnia Technologies, leading automation and bottling technologies group for the food and beverage industry, has acquired ACMI, SACMI Beverage and SACMI Labelling to create a leading provider of turnkey high-speed beverage automation solutions

ACMI is a global leading designer and producer of complete packaging and bottling lines, mostly for the food and beverage industry, where it is often the primary contractor and line integrator Its product portfolio includes palletisers and depalletisers, cartoning machines, wrappers, handlers, multifunctional robots and transportation systems

SACMI Beverage provides standalone equipment and complete high-speed blowing and bottling lines for PET/rPET (virgin/recycled PET plastic), metal cans and glass packaging of liquid products

SACMI Labelling provides automatic labelling solutions, suitable for glass, plastic and metal containers for the high-speed beverage, beer, food, and wine sectors

NEWS Bar & Cellar

Booth Dispensers’ latest Venom dispense range

The Venom countertop dispense range is designed and manufactured in-house in the UK and uses the latest in Dry-Core Technology The Venom is designed to deliver perfect draft beverages at a constant low temperature, ready to dispense in minutes.

The Venom uses an aluminium cast block to chill the product, so there is no need to worry about ice banks and topping up water levels It’s a ‘plug and play’ unit that can deliver chilled beverage within minutes, ensuring the perfect drink temperature every time.

A new ‘twin tap’ variation allows users to easily dispense two different drinks from a single unit, and its portable application means you can now bring

the bar with you anywhere Set up is easy and in just a few minutes by connecting to your choice of keg and start dispensing your favourite drinks! Green in more ways than one, the Venom Range utilises eco-friendly hydrocarbon refrigerant to drastically reduce its impact on the environment, while still delivering top-notch performance!

With summer here, you can elevate your next function with this sleek and stylish countertop unit With its modern design and high-end features, as well as the ability to add your own custom branding, it can add a touch of elegance to any space. Whether it's in your home, a bustling bar, lively restaurant, or a vibrant event, the Venom Range promises crisp excellence with every pour!

Chemisphere UK launches duo of summer offers

Chemisphere UK is launching its ‘Get Ready for Summer ’ campaign with two special offer bundles aimed at beer line cleaning and glass washing within the hospitality industry.

To further support its mission to raise the bar for quality standards across the industry, the company is launching a duo of summer special offers Chemisphere has put together two bundles to make life easier for customers as they contain everything they’ll need at a massively discounted price

Linda Adamson, Marketing Manager at Chemisphere, said, “Summertime signals one of the most important sales periods for pubs, bars and restaurants so it’s vital that establishments prepare for this busy period in order to impress their customers and win that all important repeat custom ”

“I couldn’t agree more” said Allan Stevenson, Draught Quality Training Manager at Chemisphere He continued, “People only buy a second pint based on the quality of the first and a good pint starts with exceptional line hygiene and immaculately clean glass ware ”

Springtime is when establishments need to get themselves ready for summer in order to cash in on the

imminent upturn in patrons Carrying out deep cleans on their lines, overhauling their glass ware care, as well as putting in place the correct processes will ensure that they have positioned themselves perfectly for the upcoming summer rush As the old adage goes, failing to prepare is preparing to fail

By committing to these elevated hygiene standards, establishments maximise their chances of taking existing and newly acquired summer customers along with them into autumn and winter

The Chemisphere team has put together two special offer bundles : Bundle 1 – Line Cleaner – Save 39% - RRP £138 70, offer price £84 50 1 x 5L Pipeline Bottoming Out Kit

15 x 200g One-Shot Purple Powder

1 x 750 ml Tap & Keg Sanitiser

1 x Keg Connector Brush 1 x 100 Sanitising Tablets

Deep clean your beer lines the Chemisphere way with its Gold Standard liquid line cleaner followed by the new purple beer line cleaning powder every week/fortnight You’ll recognise this signature colour change and you’ll be ‘astounded’ by the cleaning power of the latest addition to the Pipeline family Other essentials include a Tap & Keg Sanitiser and Keg Connector Brush –

vital for preventing the ingress of product spoiling bacteria at both ends of the line. Sanitising tablets complete the pack for the often-overlooked task of cleaning and disinfecting your nozzles and sparklers overnight.

Bundle 2 – Glass Wash – Save 36% - RRP £85.08, offer price £54.50

3 x 5L Ultimate

1 x 5L Finesse Original 5 x 100g Original Renovate

Serve top quality beverages that will bring your customers back time after time with immaculate glassware

Ultimate glass washing detergent certainly lives up to its name, especially when coupled with Finesse Original rinse aid Restore your machine and glasses to optimum condition with Original Renovate Cheaper alternatives simply do not compare, says Chemisphere

This is the latest initiative from Chemisphere that aims to show the company’s support for the industry during difficult times, as well as positioning itself as the go-to expert for premium quality detergents and accessories for ware-washing, beverage dispense system sterilisation and kitchen hygiene

www.chemisphereuk.com

NEWS Business Services

Freedom Brewery launches contract brewing service

A pioneer of British premium lager, Freedom Brewery has announced a new contract brewing service enabling growing producers to meet any increase in demand through a trusted resource.

Having recently invested more than £2 million into its production facilities, Freedom Brewery is offering its industry expertise to other brewers to brew, bottle, can and keg beers in multiple volumes, utilising state-of-the-art infrastructure

The multi-award-winning brewer, which has been operating for nearly 30 years, has installed a brand-new CFT canning line The machine can operate at a rate of 15,000 cans per hour, with printing or labelling into trays or multi-packs and then palletised all part of the offering

A market-leading keg washing and filling machine can also support with filling 30L and 50L kegs, for brewers specifically needing an on-trade support function

As an independent business, Freedom Brewery’s agility means it can quickly and expertly create all manner of beer styles, from crisp, refreshing lagers to juicy IPA’s, at minimum 5,000 litre brews The business is also offering an option to combine experiences and

develop new recipes, if that’s where the interested parties are seeking support And with sustainable production practices now an intrinsic part of most brewing businesses, Freedom Brewery also provides strong credentials on this front As well as using Kieselguhr filtration to ensure beers are free from animal products and Vegan Society Certified, it uses natural spring water from a bore hole on site, thermal fluid heating to reduce energy consumption by 30%, and reed bed filtration to naturally clean wastewater, to name a few

“We’re able to take care of every aspect of your brew, from raw ingredients to the finished product, and the new canning line enables an incredibly efficient method to get from production to packaging so products can be put into market faster to help your bottom line.”

Matthew Willson, Managing Director at Freedom Brewery, said: “Contract brewing has been a staple of this industry for a long-time and we felt this was an area in which we could provide strong value to the market

“Investment in new equipment, infrastructure, and workforce to grow your business can be costly, timeconsuming and a real barrier to growth and what’s where we’re in a fortunate position to support

Freedom Brewery was founded in 1995 and is renowned for proper premium beer, brewed properly The brewery utilises long, cold fermentation over 14 days, and long, slow maturation over a minimum of four weeks, to produce beer that is full bodied and naturally carbonated, while also refreshingly crisp and drinkable

Proofworks launches to unlock a new era of digital transformation in the spirits industry

Proofworks has launched a proprietary SaaS solution to digitalise the entire spirits supply chain, from production, maturation and bottling, to customer engagement and digital ownership

Combining user-friendly solutions with the latest in powerful Web3 technologies, the Proofworks platform surfaces previously unseen data and insights, allowing for optimisation and transparency at every stage of the product journey.

This is a key time for the spirits industry, as visibility of channel inventory becomes critical with category growth changes, and as increasing costs and supply chain

disruption drive the need for greater efficiency. Proofworks is enabling the connectivity of distilleries and warehouses through technologies such as NFC, RFID, QR codes and smart sensors All this data is stored securely on blockchain and made accessible via the Proofworks platform

As well as this powerful data being used to inform and optimise production, meet emerging compliance requirements and achieve sustainability goals, it is also empowering the end consumer experience A fundamental principle is that users don’t need to be familiar with blockchain concepts or Web3 technologies to engage with the tools and services As broader adoption

continues and valuable use-cases emerge, Proofworks believe these technologies provide spirits companies with a unique competitive advantage

With successful live deployments in Scottish, Irish and American distilleries and warehouses, Proofworks is already seeing significant demand and has an ambitious roadmap of new features and services which will be released over the coming months This includes CaskPassport™ and BottlePassport™ which aim to directly address the challenges of investment fraud and counterfeits, through digital deeds

NEWS Business Services

Wells & Co. rolls out company-wide commitment to recycling waste

Running a business in a manner that prioritises both the environment and local communities is no mean feat However, it’s a challenge that Wells & Co. agreed to tackle head-on through a corporate commitment to protecting the planet

Established in 1876, Wells & Co is an independent, family-owned pub management business based in the heart of Bedfordshire Overseeing around 30 managed establishments across the UK – from neighbourhood hangouts and countryside taverns, to friendly city centre stops – the company is headquartered at Brewpoint – a £14m state-of-the-art brewery specialising in small-run speciality ales and lagers

Following a period of reflection during the pandemic, Wells & Co decided to shake up operations and embrace a completely new approach that prioritises both the company’s impact on both the natural environment and the communities surrounding it This shift

required a complete evolution of the business, but one that the team wholeheartedly supported

Renegotiating energy contracts to ensure that every establishment in the group was powered by 100% renewable energy, was part of the plan However, one of the biggest moves was collaborating with ReFood – the UK’s leading food waste recycler – to take plate scrapings, kitchen scraps and out of date produce from the company’s 30 sites nationwide, in a bid to eradicate food waste to landfill

With extensive experience working with leading names from across the supply chain, ReFood implemented a bespoke service which has helped Wells & Co to revolutionise its green credentials With three anaerobic digestion (AD) facilities in Widnes, Doncaster and Dagenham, ReFood collects 480,000 tonnes of food and drink waste each year and recycles it to generate renewable energy and sustainable biofertiliser

With its own fleet of collection vehicles,

ReFood offers an end-to-end bespoke service to suit exacting business needs Unique in the marketplace, its ‘bin swap’ solution sees full bins collected and switched for empty, sanitised replacements This allows food waste bins to be used directly in kitchen areas and helps businesses to separate at source.

Ed Robinson, sustainability manager at Wells & Co , commented: “Like most hospitality businesses, food waste is a frustrating – but hard to eliminate – part of our day-to-day operations Our partnership with ReFood has already had a significant impact across the business Rather than just a service provider, we see the team as a partner They’re committed to making recycling food waste as simple as possible for us, working around the many schedules of our partners and restaurants ”

UK’s oldest commercial vineyard secures

capital facility from Secure Trust Bank

Hampshire-based English Sparkling Wine producer, Hambledon Vineyard (Hambledon), has secured a £10m facility from Secure Trust Bank Commercial Finance (STB CF), providing the working capital needed to enter the next stage of its growth journey

Founded in 1952 by Major-General Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones, Hambledon is England’s oldest commercial vineyard In 2023, the business was acquired by Berry Bros & Rudd and Symington Family Estates in a consortium deal

This acquisition will ensure Hambledon is able to reach its full potential and also ensure that a new Visitor Centre can be opened too, supporting Hambledon Vineyard in becoming a best-in-class venue in the growing UK oenotourism sector

To consolidate future growth, the business required additional working capital to maintain its level of production, and consequently reached out to the STB CF team to secure a facility that would support its strategic growth ambitions Hambledon Vineyard now has ambitious plans to increase its market share through its UK distribution channels and also international markets

Joe Jeffers, Finance Director of Hambledon Vineyard, said: “In helping to ensure our growth remained sustainable, Tony and the STB team worked closely with us to really understand our business, and what we were looking to achieve over the coming

years As the wine tourism sector continues to flourish, there will be more opportunity for growth for Hambledon and the facility we have received from STB CF will provide the required working capital to grow, further enhancing the investment into the winery and in our people ”

Tony Young, Regional Sales Director at Secure Trust Bank Commercial Finance, added: “We have worked closely with Joe and the team to offer Hambledon a flexible finance option that supports not only the current growth it is experiencing, but the future growth as the team focuses on targeting new markets across the globe Having tasted the excellent product on several occasions, I look forward to seeing what is next for this exciting, historic vineyard under its new ownership ”

DRINKS INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS

Want to promote your business to the UK marketplace? Then here’s what this magazine is all about!

We’re a quarterly ‘Product & Services’ platform for the UK drinks production industry

So if your business has something to sell to UK brewers , distillers, and cider makers, plus other drinks producers, you can publicise it within our pages.

Ask yourself, is there another UK drinks trade magazine that ticks all these boxes?

o Free subscription for a printed copy open to ALL UK brewers

o Free subscription for a printed copy open to ALL UK distillers

o Free subscription for a printed copy open to ALL UK cider makers

o Circulation figures which are actually ABC audited & certified (not assumed or simply mailed to members)

o Free editorial (no advertorials please!)

o Right-hand-page, low-cost advertising, with additional discounts and benefits.

o Online page-flip version with editorial live links to advertisers’ websites

o Social media coverage of advertisers’ editorial at no additional cost To be included in the next issue please email chris@brewingbusiness.co.uk 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

: Friday 2nd August

ARTWORK: Thursday 8th August

l Drinks fonts, taps, beer engines, pump clips & lens, and also bar r unners, anything on the bar!

l Promotional branded glassware for the retail market.

l Back-bar equipment and ser vices.

l Cellar equipment and ser vices, including stillaging and cooling

l New and pre- owned bottling & canning equipment available in the UK.

l Companies that will install your equipment and work with you in commissioning and initial production, in addition to providing tuition.

Andrew Jeans

BFBi National Chair

In the ever-evolving landscape of the food, beverage, and brewer y industries, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment. As the global community grapples with challenges ranging from sustainability and health to supply chain resilience, the importance of effective leadership and collaboration cannot be overstated.

Your Voice, a beacon of insight and innovation within the industry, serves as a platform for dialogue, exploration, and transformation. Under the stewardship of the BFBi, this publication has consistently provided invaluable perspectives on trends, opportunities, and best practices shaping our field.

In the following pages and at both the social and professional events we organise for you, we explore the myriad facets of our industry, from technological advancements and consumer preferences to regulatory landscapes and market dynamics Through diverse perspectives and thought-provoking analyses, we aim to inspire and empower industry stakeholders to navigate the challenges ahead with confidence and resilience.

So please join us - Together, let us embrace the opportunities that lie before us and chart a course towards a brighter, more sustainable future for all. ‘’Unity is Strength ’’

Andrew Jeans

Industrial Trading Solutions Managing Director and BFBi National Chairman

Booth Dispensers - bespoke UK manufacturing solutions since 1965

At Booth we provide a comprehensive range of bespoke dispense solutions for the entire beverage industry. With years of experience in manufacturing and design, our team of in-house professionals are eager to contribute their expertise to your project.

No matter what the challenge, we have the tools to solve it, whether it is producing custom cooling systems and carbonators, or designing complex bespoke projects.

We have recently

invested in a brand-new Fibre laser cutter, capable of cutting stainless steel, zinc and mild steel up to 3mm thick, speeding up in-house production and enabling us to operate in new markets

At the core of our sheet metal fabrication facilities we have an LVD Strippit PX 1225 Punch Press and two LVD PPED Press Brakes This allows us to punch and form custom sheet metal components, produce intricate copper or stainless-steel tube forms, and fabricate with coded welders

In order to ensure that our products provide maximum value and performance, we maintain strict quality control standards. We also have an attentive and friendly customer service team available to assist you with any questions you may have.

Contact us today to find out more about how our fabrication service can bring your ideas and projects to life If you have any projects that require manufacturing facilities and would like to discuss the services we can provide please send an email to CustomerService @booth-dispensers.co.uk

Going green with SSV Limited - CO2 recover y

In today's business landscape, prioritising sustainability and curbing carbon emissions is critical across all sectors. With heightened consumer awareness and more stringent regulations, businesses face challenges in implementing changes that reduce their environmental impact.

For the brewing industry, a substantial contributor to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is the fermentation process, significantly impacting the carbon footprint of beer production.

Recognising the urgency to address these emissions, breweries are increasingly adopting CO2 recovery systems as part of their sustainability initiatives These systems capture CO2 emitted during fermentation, purifying it for reuse in the brewing process This not only reduces atmospheric CO2 emissions but also yields significant cost savings, given the essential role of CO2 in beer production and the wide-ranging fluctuations seen over recent years in CO2 prices and the difficulty at times for breweries to secure supply.

SSV Limited is actively engaged in reducing its carbon footprint and has

introduced the innovative Hypro CO2 Recovery Unit This system offers notable advantages over others, operating at moderate pressures of 15-18 bar, enabling breweries to leverage existing infrastructure without the need for high-pressure storage vessels The design minimises flashing losses, typically found in higher-pressure systems, resulting in enhanced efficiency, cost savings and overall value.

The Hypro unit boasts user-friendly operation with an intelligent monitoring system overseeing CO2 quality and managing the recovery process automatically. Its versatility can be further amplified by the option of a CO2 distillation column to achieve even higher purities.

Notably, the Hypro CO2 Recovery unit eliminates the need to handle CO2 cylinders, enhancing safety and operational convenience in brewery settings Fully automated with PLC and remote access capabilities, it represents a cutting-edge solution for breweries committed to sustainability, operational efficiency, and safe practices

Embracing CO2 recovery technology not only aligns with environmental

goals but also delivers tangible benefits for breweries promoting sustainability, realising cost savings, providing a short-term ROI, and fostering operational excellence in the long term By investing in innovative solutions like the SSV Limited Hypro CO2 Recovery Unit, breweries can actively contribute to a more sustainable future while reducing their environmental impact.

ssvlimited.co.uk

The importance of using foaming control agents in biological processes

By Dimitris Theodoridis, Technical Director OMEX Environmental

Foaming is a common issue that can arise from a range of causes in a biological environment. It is an occurrence associated with both the anaerobic and aerated biological treatment of wastes and wastewaters. Foaming events can have multiple operational and financial impacts to biological processes depending on the type and duration of the event and hence should be kept under monitor and control when they appear.

Foaming can occur during the start-up of an aerated biological process due to the young age of the sludge and the balance between dominant cultures in the biomass It can also form during the denitrification process when nitrogen gas is captured within masses of solids in aerated basins and clarifiers or in poorly aerated processes. Abnormal growth of aerated species

can also cause foaming, especially when filamentous bacteria become the dominant process species Operational plant parameters like variations in pH, dissolved oxygen levels and temperature can cause biological foaming

In anaerobic digestion foaming can occur due to various causes related to the use of inadequate substrates, increases in grain-rich feedstocks or suboptimal operating conditions. Most commonly foaming in biogas plants has been observed when protein-rich feedstocks, improperly ensilaged feedstock carrying mycotoxins, filamentous bacteria carry over from aerated processes or sludges are in use

From an operational perspective, organic overloading of an anaerobic digestion plant, heavy mixing, insufficient digestate recirculation or heating can also lead to excessive foaming

OMEX Environmental can supply a range of products to address these types of foaming events for both aerated and anaerobic biological processes These products are aimed at minimising the effect of an active event and, for processes with the tendency for frequent foaming, these products can offer stable and effective mitigation measures against the reappearance of foaming in the process.

www.omexenvironmental.com

Pictured above: DHV3 aerater

Specialist hygiene company puts sustainability at heart of its business

Christeyns Food Hygiene has been awarded the prestigious EcoVadis Gold Medal for its commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.

EcoVadis is the world’s largest and most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings, creating a global network of more than 130,000+ rated companies. It evaluates companies’ sustainability performance across various criteria. This Gold Medal achievement for Christeyns Food Hygiene underlines the firm’s dedication to environmental stewardship, labour practices, ethical conduct, and sustainable procurement

As part of the evaluation performance, the business is meticulously assessed across these categories, with evaluation of company policies, procedures, and key performance indicators (KPIs) This places Christeyns Food Hygiene in the top 5% worldwide of companies recognised with this esteemed award Warrington-based CFH manufactures premium hygiene products and, along with its partners, supplies solutions for the safe cleaning and disinfection of food and beverage plants and food retail businesses across the country.

Recognising the critical role that cleaning and disinfection protocols play in upholding food safety management systems, the firm is committed to enhancing clients’ operations whilst leading the sector in sustainable business practices.

“At Christeyns Food Hygiene we have long been conscious of the impact that our products and services have on the environment and on our customer’s operations,” states Chris Bayliss, CFH UK Sales Director “This award is recognition and validation of the long-term efforts we have in place to ensure and support food safety and hygiene in our customer’s sites in a sustainable way for now and the future ”

Christeyns Food Hygiene is part of the international hygiene group, Christeyns, with headquarters in

Ghent, Belgium. The group has subscribed to the Responsible Care Global Charter committed to a corporate leadership culture that safeguards people and the environment, strengthens chemicals management systems, influences business partners, promotes safe management of chemicals, engages stakeholders and contributes to sustainability. The company has also signed up to the UN Global Compact initiative.

www.christeyns.com

Pictured above: Chris Bayliss outside Christeyns Food Hygiene facility at Winwick Quay, Warrington

Anton Paar ’s craft beer analysing solutions

For many years the DMA 4500 M density meter with Alcolyzer Beer has been a ‘go to’ measuring system for those larger breweries that want the maximum accuracy for their ABV, extract and other measurements. The systems will give ABV in beer with an accuracy of +/-0.01%. However, such accuracy comes at a higher price than most smaller breweries can afford.

Extract meters are available, but these do not offer the same range of test options and can require dark or turbid samples to be clarified prior to testing

We have therefore expanded our portfolio in craft beer analysis by launching the Beer Analyzing System 1001 The system is dedicated to a craft brewer’s needs and available at

an unmatched price/ performance ratio.

The systems come with a DMA 4101 benchtop density meter and the new alcohol measuring module Alcolyzer 1001. This will give an accuracy for ABV measurements of +/- 0.05%

The Beer Analyzing System 1001 also includes an Xsample 320 sampling pump It is used for testing degassed samples in your lab or near the production area

Product Highlights include:

• Highly competitive instrument package at an unmatched price/performance ratio

• Selective alcohol determination with Anton Paar’s market-leading Alcolyzer – packed into an analyzing system dedicated to craft brewing

• Technology proven by big industry players, as recommended by beerspecific regulations like EBC, ASBC, MEBAK and BCoJ

• Ideal system configuration for in-source analysis of all key quality parameters

With our ability to offer flexible finance packages, owning an Alcolyzer System has never been more in reach for even small craft breweries email info.uk@anton-paar.com

Sign up to Charles Faram's Hop Academy

We are calling all brewers! Elevate your knowledge at Charles Faram's Hop Academy on Thursday, 20th June 2024.

Located at our headquarters in Newland, Worcestershire, WR13 5BB, this popular event is designed for trainee, new, and apprentice brewers. We’ve also welcomed experienced brewers wanting a knowledge refresh and to catch up on what’s new.

For £65 + VAT, you'll access an enriching programme that will aid in any upcoming brewing exams, including insightful hop-related seminars, an interactive hops-in-beer workshop, dinner, and a pub tour.

Led by our expert technical advisors, sessions cover everything from hop cultivation to environmental sustainability in the hop industry and brewing Engage in discussions, tour our pelleting plant, packaging facility, and cold stores, and sample our latest breeding programme varieties

Don't miss this chance to enhance your hop knowledge and network with industry peers. Register your interest via our events page at charlesfaram com or on our social media For more information, contact events@charlesfaram co uk

What previous participants have said about Charles Faram’s Hop Academy...

“I would wholeheartedly recommend the Academy to all in the business, the knowledge of all who gave their time as speakers and their obvious passion for the industry was impressive.”

“An excellent day, well worth the time. a great opportunity to be able to ask all those questions that are rattling around the brewery.”

“A great opportunity to learn more

about hop growing, processing, utilisation and trade globally.”

Secure your place at Charles Faram's Hop Academy and take your brewing to new heights!

www.charlesfaram.com

KNOWLEDGE I

Choosing the right heat exchanger for food processing

By Matt Hale, International Sales & Marketing Director, HRS Heat Exchangers

In the simplest terms, a heat exchanger is like a radiator, designed to heat (or cool) one material from another. However, over the last 150 years or so, a wide variety of types and designs have emerged, meaning that finding the most suitable type of heat exchanger for your application is not always simple.

All but the most basic heat exchangers are created to a bespoke brief, designed to take into account the material/s being heated or cooled, the heating or cooling medium, the amount of product being processed, product velocity, risk of fouling and a host of other factors. However, over the years some standard design types have emerged (as well as more specific types) and understanding the differences between these can make the specification process less of a mystery In this article, we guide you through the main types of heat exchangers produced by HRS and what applications and product types each is best suited to

Key considerations

When specifying a heat exchanger, the first consideration is whether your application requires complete stainless-steel construction for hygiene reasons; for example, in the food and beverage industry.

Next, you should consider the nature of the material being processed, in particular its viscosity and whether it contains particles. The simpler and less viscous the material being processed, the simpler the heat exchanger can be. As materials become thicker, or contain suspended particles or large solids, then heat exchange becomes more difficult, and more sophisticated designs are required to guarantee the necessary performance Starting with simple multi-tube designs, the range moves through double tubes – where viscosity is higher or solids are present – and annular space designs for highly viscous products, to the most challenging materials (such as food stuffs containing pieces or very thick products like honey) requiring the use of scraped surface heat exchangers

Another consideration is what happens

in the event of a leak In certain circumstances, particularly where the service fluid is not water, a leak can be business critical. In such cases, double tubeplate multitube heat exchangers should be specified, as these provide leak detection in order to avoid cross contamination between the service and product fluids.

Main heat exchanger types

Most heat transfer applications will require the use of corrugated tube heat exchangers. These offer a number of benefits over smooth tube designs –in particular, heat transfer and energy efficiency are increased (making them better for high-capacity heating or cooling)

Fouling is also minimised meaning that units can be more compact and economical, and cleaning and servicing requirements are reduced For the most challenging applications (such as materials with high fouling potential, or where certain product characteristics are required), scraped surface heat exchangers are recommended Depending on whether the product needs gentle handling or increased mixing, HRS offers rotating and reciprocating designs

Corrugated tube heat exchangers

HRS produces three types of corrugated tube heat exchangers for food use:

• Annular space heat exchangers

• Double tube heat exchangers

• Multitube heat exchangers

Annular space heat exchangers are designed to ensure thorough heat transfer in high viscosity products. The product flows through the annular space between the inner and outer tubes, through which the service fluid flows to ensure even heating or cooling As well as products with higher viscosity, the HRS AS Series is suitable for highly viscous fluids or those containing small particles, such as ketchup, honey, fruit jams and marmalades, as well as some dairy products and vegetable fats and oils

Double tube heat exchangers consist of a tube within a tube and are among the most versatile corrugated tube heat exchangers The HRS DTA Series is a true counter current stainless steel double tube heat exchanger The DTA,

and the new DTAR Series, are designed for more viscous products or products with large particulates in suspension, such as fruit mixes.

Multitube heat exchangers are the simplest design and carry the product in more than one interior tube, while the service fluid flows through the surrounding shell. HRS produces a number of different multi tube heat exchangers for use in a wide range of different industries and applications. For food and beverage use, the HRS MI Series is suitable for products with low to medium viscosities; while for direct energy recovery, the HRS MR Series features removable tubes to allow hygienic processing on the shell side and is also suitable for products with low to medium viscosities

Where potential cross contamination is an issue, the HRS SH Series is a multitube shell and tube heat exchanger designed with the added security of a double tubeplate, providing leak detection to avoid cross contamination between the service and product fluids

The HRS MP Series uses multiple passes on the tube side for greater flexibility for optimising fluid velocity, pressure drop and heat transfer. The unique design creates longer thermal length within the same module, avoiding designs with multiple modules and interconnecting bends, and is ideal for applications involving low- to medium-viscosity fluids.

Scraped surface heat exchangers (SSHEs) are the preferred choice for difficult heat transfer applications; for example, those with high viscosities and where fouling can become a problem HRS offers two types of SSHE

The patented Unicus Series is based on a traditional shell and tube heat exchanger, but with scraping elements inside each tube The reciprocating movement of the scrapers mixes the fluid whilst cleaning the heat exchange surface. This keeps heat transfer high and reduces downtime. In addition, the scraping movements introduce turbulence in the fluid, increasing levels of heat transfer.

Continued opposite

Continued from page 60

The gentle movement of a range of scraper designs allows the Unicus to be used with delicate products, such as whole fruit or vegetable pieces, without destroying the product integrity.

In contrast, the HRS R Series is designed for very high viscosities and high fouling fluids. It uses a rotary scraper rod which can reach velocities of up to 300 rpm, resulting in very high levels of shear and mixing at the heat transfer surface, and dramatically increasing the heat transfer rate A heavy-duty version (the HRS RHD Series) has also been developed for the most demanding applications with extreme viscosities The R Series is ideal for very thick food products where thorough mixing is an advantage

Whatever food or drink product you need to process, whether warming dairy products ahead of processing, or pasteurising juices, thick pastes or meat slurries, HRS have the ideal heat exchanger for you, and the expert staff to help you find it www.hrs-heatexchangers.com

K-Tea Kombucha expands its bottling and canning capacity

K-Tea Kombucha, the beverage artisan based in Guernsey, has announced a significant advancement in its production capabilities with the recent integration of an IC Filling Systems 6-6-1-1 microblock.

This state-of-the-art line is adept at handling both glass bottles and aluminium cans, marking a pivotal enhancement in K-Tea's Guernsey production facility

At the heart of K-Tea's ethos is a commitment to authenticity and excellence, using only natural flavouring ingredients and premium teas. This dedication ensures that each bottle of Kombucha is a masterpiece of natural fermentation and carbonation, achieved through meticulous in-bottle secondary fermentation processes.

This technological upgrade represents a transition from a

previous semi-automatic 6-6-1

Compactblock filler, also provided by IC Filling Systems, to a more advanced system This strategic enhancement elevates K-Tea's production capacity from 400 to over 1,000 glass bottles per hour, effectively responding to the escalating demand for their natural kombucha.

Furthermore, this versatile microblock introduces the capability to package their signature beverages in aluminium cans, offering consumers more ways to enjoy K-Tea's kombucha.

www.icfillingsystems.com

Brewpoint and Konvoy partner to begin IoT keg fleet tracking across the UK and France

Brewpoint, the Wells & Co owned Bedford-based brewer with almost 200 pubs across the UK and France, has teamed up with the world’s leading keg tracking and keg pooling solution Konvoy, to further underpin its triple bottom line credentials.

“Our focus on the triple bottom line approach of people, planet and profit means we invest our time and resources on social and environmental issues as much as we do our financial performance. That ethos touches every part of our business and Konvoy’s Cloud platform and Katch internet of things (IoT) cellular keg tracker will give us real-time location, temperature, and time-based insights that no keg fleet operator has ever had before. With that visibility and data, we can learn much more about our supply chain and the factors that can affect our beer miles as well as the quality of our beers at venue, ” said Tom Foddy, Commercial Director at Brewpoint

With a significant increase in brewers across Europe and the USA enquiring and joining Konvoy to better manage their own keg and cask fleet operations, CEO for UK & Europe Christian Barden, said, “I’m really pleased with the product and momentum the Konvoy team are building. It’s an honour to be working with Brewpoint and a great example of how the leadership of a fifthgeneration brewer is embracing cutting edge technology to keep learning and improving its processes. ”

The news comes hot on the heels of Wells & Co announcing it has expanded its French pub estate by two more sites and the installation of a hub of eight 300kW ultra-rapid EV chargers at the Brewpoint brewery, providing residents, businesses, and visitors with easy access to EV charging

“From the outset the Brewpoint task was about location visibility from

brewery to bar and back again Add temperature and motion-based keg events and we offer even broader capability to help solve millennia old problems of slow, idle, or lost assets right through to the new task of monitoring, reporting and reducing the Scope 3 carbon emissions,” said Tom Meakin, Business Development Director at Konvoy.

Konvoy remains the pay-per-fill keg pooling market leader in Australia and New Zealand with its ambitions to operate globally well underway with the UK the next cornerstone market. Its own 130,000 keg tracking devices have reported important supply chain location, temperature, and motion data nearly 200 million times from 20 countries

The Konvoy team has recently showcased its ground-breaking technology at The Brewers Congress in London, England, SEA Brew in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, and Brau Beviale in Nuremburg, Germany,

Already in 2024 Konvoy has exhibited at Society of Independent Brewers’ BeerX in Liverpool, England and the Brewers Association’s Craft Brewers Conference and BrewExpo in Las Vegas, USA.

www.konvoykegs.com

Our drive to lower the impact of Croxsons on the environment goes far beyond our finished products.

www.croxsons.com

Drinks manufacturer Britvic has increased capacity at its Rugby factory by £5.4m after partnering with LineView Solutions.

lineview.com/en/

Pentair appoints Valve & Process Solutions Ltd as the UK’s only authorised Channel Partner for Südmo

Spares & Components

Following collaborative discussions with leading supplier to the UK process industries, Valve & Process Solutions Ltd., Pentair is delighted to announce that an authorised Channel Partner agreement has been made and which came into effect in April 2024.

Founded in 2005, Valve & Process Solutions Ltd specialises in the specification and supply of flow control equipment such as valves, actuators, switchboxes, positioners, solenoids and ancillary equipment to the process industry The company is a valued stockist and distributor to businesses across the UK and worldwide, offering multi-product solutions for a wide range of industries tailored to their individual requirements.

“With a proven reputation within the UK hygienic sector, we are delighted

to partner with Valve & Process Solutions Ltd who are ideally positioned to support the Pentair Südmo spares & components business in the UK, providing our customers with a more streamlined efficient sales ordering process, ” says Jamie Lambert, Südmo Sales Manager, Europe

"I am thrilled to announce Valve & Process Solutions' appointment as the UK’s only authorised Channel Partner for Pentair Südmo Spares & Components This strategic collaboration enhances our ability to deliver market-leading flow control solutions, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and providing unparalleled benefits to both our customers and Pentair’s. Together, we look forward to setting new standards in the process industry," adds Steve Pearson, Founder of Valve & Process Solutions.

www.vandpsolutions.com

Over 20 million products sold worldwide

Emma Stewart, TecFlo’s MD, shares the journey to developing and launching TecFlo’s first online shop

‘Hospitality has enough red tape to navigate. Extending supply of the exceptional products and services, to the complete industry, feels timely Whether a customer is wanting 10,000 items or 1. Whether they want to come to us directly or be supported through an online platform – it was the right thing to do!”

Emma Stewart, Managing Director, TecFlo

I have done 40 orbits around the sun, spent 20 years in executive roles, 11 years as a Mummy, 10 as a wife, 3 as a Managing Director and as I write this… 6 weeks with an online shop. Despite this I recently spoke at the Lancashire Ecommerce Summit, and it is safe to say that in a room of ecommerce experts I was the apprentice I was asked to speak at the event, in order to share the history of TecFlo, our decision to open an online shop and thoughts on my intention and process

Founded some 37 years ago by my Father, TecFlo has been at the table with some of the world’s most powerful brewing brands Despite 4 decades, 20 million products and 43 countries - zero has been spent on marketing and zero sold online. When I share this the first question I am asked, is ‘how?’

There is no simple or quick answer to this. Instead there’s likely a list of thousands of relevant points, mixed together and sprinkled with a bit of

blood, sweat and luck. There are a few consistent things that have helped, and I shared these.

Tooling – TecFlo’s decision to own the tools has been pivotal. I don’t mean small tools – I mean the big ones that support high volume injection moulding We neither rent nor borrow time and therefore control production and alterations Owning tools has allowed us the freedom to drive improvements and implement action quickly

Stock – As a supplier we are often at the bottom of the communication tree and yet we place significant value to being responsive to change I shared a ‘post covid’ story where a major brand, not supplied through TecFlo typically, called stating they ‘had a hole in their supply of a particular product’. When we asked how big that hole was, we received response that it was a ‘7,000 pieces’ hole. We delivered them the next day! Stock enables us to be responsive to the changing needs of the customers that we serve.

Quality – I repeat (a LOT) that we test everything 100%. A simple sentence but one difficult to quantify TecFlo’s steadfast commitment to testing has undoubtedly kept the business sat at the table with the brands I have mentioned Confidence in our products built slowly, across years as a result of 100% testing 100% of the time

So what of the shop?

We are now in June 2023 and it is a Saturday morning My Father and I decide to catch up over a brew whilst walking the dogs down his drive We casually talk about the business and a few things in the pipeline and I share intention to rework the website and open an online shop I offered 3 core considerations We would sell with NO minimum order quantities and offer free next day delivery

Between that conversation and February 5th 2024 when we quietly went live ‘online’ some of the deep rooted behaviours that have supported TecFlo, fed this project. I share these:

Relax and Enjoy it – We use ‘relax’ in

the same approach to a runner relaxing into the pace of a marathon. Relax isn’t about it being easy, relaxing is about being patient. It was fully understood that this was not going to happen overnight. I shared the story of the development of our range of Fittings where we talk in terms of the ‘next 10 years ’ In a world where instant results, instant change, instant ‘connection’ seems to have taken hold a gentle reminder and nod to ‘relaxing into the pace needed for the full journey’ has been important to us

Do it well – we say this a lot If we are going to do it ‘do it well’ It mattered in the online project I have never been gifted with a perfect plan, in fact I would argue that a ‘perfect plan’ is riding around on a unicorn Instead, I would suggest there are only ‘good enough to start’ plans Taking a good enough plan from good enough to ‘better’ is what is relevant This involved talking to existing customers, resellers and the businesses helping us build and develop the site.

Go all in – I love this one most. I am reminded of the Olympic British Rowing Team and the inspirational message of ‘do it only if it makes the boat go faster’. A commitment which would bring home the Gold medal. We use this analogy often. Going ‘all in’ is the absolute commitment to give the process everything. It is undoubtedly easier to go ‘all in’ for short periods of time and then lose interest – but TecFlo has demonstrated long term success by going ‘all in’ for decades

These 3 principles saw us through the development of the site and the launch of TecFlo’s first online shop 6 weeks later I most certainly remain an apprentice in a world with a whole different language From our strategic global partnerships to the sole traders, our eshop has been an organic development extending the compliment of our equipment to everyone.

Whether that is 100,000 pieces or 1! With free next day delivery, we aim to offer the same support to ALL participants in the sector.

www.tec-flo.co.uk

Unlocking the power of custom packaging for your business growth

From soft drinks to beer and fizz, luxury gifts to tasty snacks that’ll have your taste buds dancing, finding the perfect packaging is important

It’s not just about delivering a product from A to B; it’s about delivering a customer experience that screams “ wow”! Imagine your goodies snugly nestled in vibrant, eye-catching boxes that not only protect them on their journey, but also make your brand stand out in a sea of mundane packages.

With the world scrolling through social media for shopping inspo and 87% of people using these platforms when making a shopping decision (Modern Retail), standing out is key, and wowfactor custom packaging is an excellent way to make sure your brand catches eyes and turns heads You won’t be short of packaging boxes to choose from – the options are endless! Though standard boxes are reliable and certainly have their place, custom creations are where the real magic happens They can help

(1) boost sales, (2) reduce product damage and (3) provide an unmatched and memorable unboxing experience for customers For a brand that’s trying to stand out, grow and engage with customers, custom boxes can take things to the next level

At Saxon Packaging (part of the Smurfit Kappa Group), we ’ re using our over three decades of experience to unlock the power of custom packaging and we want to share this with you! Below are some of the impossible-toignore reasons why custom packaging is so powerful for your business growth.

www.saxonpackaging.co.uk

Peek Behind the Curtain: Hypro's 25-Year Anniversar y

On January 25, 1999, Hypro embarked on an incredible journey that has now reached a significant milestone – our Silver Jubilee.

Brewing Food & Beverage Industry Suppliers’ Association

11 Side Strand • Pendeford Place Pendeford Business Park Wolverhampton WV9 5HD

Chief Executive: Ruth Evans MBE

Tel: +44 (0)1902 422303

Fax: +44 (0)1902 795744

Email: info@bfbi org uk

Website: www bfbi org uk

OVER 100 YEARS SERVICE TO THE BREWING, FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY

Limited Company by Guarantee Company Registration Number 11760186

BFBi represents the supply chain into the beverage industr y with Full Members ranging from barley and hop merchants through to process engineers, packaging, point of sale, etc

Manufacturers, including brewers/distillers, may join as Associate Members.

As a “traditional” industr y (in its best sense), where relationships between supplier and customer are recognised as adding value and ensuring sustainability, BFBi is well known as a facilitator of social and professional networking events

Forthcoming events

SEPTEMBER

Thursday 5th Tour of Somerset Cider Solutions

Tuesday 10th Cellar2Seller Seminar - Loughborough Conference Centre

Tuesday 17th London Section Seminar at Curious Brewery - Moving Beyond Plastic Packaging – London venue to be confirmed

Tuesday 24th Saxon Webinar - Details to be confirmed (see BFBi website)

Thursday 26th Midland Section Golf Day - Branston Golf Club

OCTOBER

Thursday 3rd Tour of Bevisol - Ledbury

Tuesday 15th Nijhuis Webinar - How to reduce carbon & recover renewable biogas / energy from your industrial effluent – Highrate Anaerobic digestion - what? Why? how?

Thursday 17th Tour of Soufflet Maltings - Burton Upon Trent (TBC)

Friday 25th Western Section Seminar & Lunch - Lunch Queens Hotel, Cheltenham (TBC)

NOVEMBER

Thursday 7th Midland Section Balti Social - Birmingham Tuesday 26th - Thursday 28th Brau Beviale - Nuremburg, Germany

2025

APRIL - MAY

Monday 28th - Thursday 1st CBC 2025 - Indianapolis, USA

SEPTEMBER

Monday 15th - Friday 19th drinktec - Munich, Germany