Master
BREWER
www.shepherdneame.co.uk Spring 2014
UNRIVALLED EXPERIENCES These are exciting times in the world of beer. Consumer tastes are changing and the way they are interacting with each other has been revolutionised thanks to social media. There are many clichÊs which spring to mind: the global village and citizen journalist to name but two. One thing is for certain, people are increasingly keen to try something new and then share their experiences. You will read in this issue how the brewery’s reaping the rewards of its expanded range of beers, including both under license products like Sam Adams and new own brands such as the Whitstable Bay collection which was introduced in the last issue. The breadth of new business these beers have secured for the brewery is extremely heartening, including some of the coolest and most prestigious venues across the length and breadth of the UK. We have completed a variety of refurbishments in our pub estate, including some very impressive matched investments with tenants with a very clear ambition for their business. Meanwhile, improvements to our accommodation continue, with the full refurbishment of the newly named Botany Bay Hotel (acquired as the Fayreness Hotel in September 2011). The hotel opens this Easter offering a high quality experience that befits its stunning coastal location.
Jonathan Neame Chief Executive @jbneame
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ENVIRONMENT SECRETARY UNVEILS £3 MILLION WATER RECOVERY PLANT Environment Secretary Owen Paterson officially opened a water recovery plant at Shepherd Neame’s Faversham brewery in November. The new development cost in excess of £3million. It recycles the waste water resulting from brewing and cleaning, which was previously sent to the drain. The new technology will help the brewery reduce its level of water consumption by approximately 40 per cent. Chalk-filtered mineral water from the artesian well deep beneath the brewery will now only be used for brewing and the newly recovered water will be used for cleaning.
Environment Secretary Owen Paterson toasts the new development
Before unveiling a plaque to mark the opening, Mr Paterson said: “It is great to see a traditional brewery use cutting edge technology to reduce its water footprint. This new plant will not only improve the environment but help grow the rural economy. It is an excellent example of innovation and I hope others are inspired to follow their lead."
The plant has taken one year to build. Speaking after the unveiling, chief executive Jonathan Neame said: “This is a considerable investment for the company and the plant provides a long term solution for our brewery’s waste water. Excellent quality water is the lifeblood of any brewery and we’re delighted this facility will reduce our load on local infrastructure and improve our sustainability.”
Happy Birthday, Mr President! Company President Robert Neame CBE DL turned 80 this February and celebrated in style at the Old Brewery Store with family and friends. Bobby, as he’s affectionately known in the industry, joined Shepherd Neame in 1956 and became company chairman in 1971, a role he performed until 2005, when he became the company’s first President.
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SOHO PUB ACQUISITION Shepherd Neame has acquired the lease of The George public house, in D’Arblay Street, Soho. This brings the number of London pubs owned by the brewery to 34. After an extensive refurbishment of this historic four-storey property, it is now operating as part of the brewery’s managed estate. Situated in a prime location at the corner of Wardour Street, The George is a short walk from Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road Underground stations.
Prime location: The George, Soho
This traditional Soho local caters for tourists and regulars alike and the addition of a new kitchen means that it is now serving good-quality pub food.
The Eleanor Arms in Bow has been voted London Pub of the Year 2014 by the Society for the Preservation of Beers from the Wood
Shepherd Neame retail director Nigel Bunting said: “The George occupies a prime position in a busy tourist and commercial area and this acquisition further enhances our portfolio of London pubs. “We hope that customers enjoy its new look and the great food now on offer.”
WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OUR LICENSEES Matched investment projects with the brewery’s tenants are leading to the creation of pubs with a very distinct offer to customers. Improvements have been made to two pubs with significant potential. Shoreditch pub, the Prince Arthur, Brunswick Place has benefited from a complete refurbishment. New licensee Euan Johnston and Shepherd Neame have jointly invested £100,000 to modernise the pub, while maintaining the eclectic look and feel of a country pub. Upstairs living accommodation has been transformed into a function room accommodating up to 20 people. Licensee Euan Johnston, great great grandson of the first Neame to own the brewery, said:
Prince Arthur, Shoreditch
“I knew the pub well and when I heard that the former tenant, Dixie Dean was leaving, I was keen to take it on. It’s an authentic real ale pub serving the local community and it’s this essence which I’ve tried to preserve by using reclaimed materials and furniture.” Eynsford’s Castle Hotel has undergone from a £90,000 joint refurbishment between the brewery and new licensees Sharon and Gordon Thompson.
The Castle, Eynsford
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Sharon has designed and project-managed the refurbishment. She said: “We chose the hotel as it is situated in the lovely Darent Valley and we saw the opportunity to create a successful, multi-faceted hospitality business with Shepherd Neame, set in beautiful surroundings.”
RINGING IN THE CHANGES AT THE BELL HOTEL A luxurious new look has been unveiled at The Bell Hotel in Sandwich. The historic 37-bedroom establishment, in the heart of the Cinque Port town, has enjoyed a £380,000 makeover to its public areas. Feature lighting and mirrors have been used to create a more intimate environment in the refurbished Old Dining Room, where customers can enjoy a delicious a la carte menu using the finest Kentish produce. As the weather improves, customers can enjoy eating al fresco, perhaps with a chilled glass of something special chosen from the extensive wine list, in the hotel’s new external dining terrace with feature ‘living room’ lamps. And if you have a special occasion coming up, why not consider using the newly refurbished first floor function suite. With its delightful Musician's Gallery, sparkling chandeliers and high ceilings, the late Georgian Regency Room is a wonderful venue, able to cater for up to 120 people.
The new look bar area
Dining at The Bell Hotel
Alternatively, The Bell's Club Room, with its private bar and meeting area, is perfect for small meetings and gatherings. Relaxed, elegant and comfortable, the Club Room has just undergone a comprehensive refurbishment. In keeping with its enviable position overlooking the River Stour, the hotel’s warm, welcoming bar area now boasts décor inspired by the water, including a driftwood bar surface and nautical pictures and artefacts. For a more informal dining experience try the brasserie menu, or if you just want to sit back and relax with a hot drink and tasty treat, a separate coffee counter with pastry table has also been introduced. Whether you fancy a drink or a quick bite with friends, or you plan to linger over dinner with someone special, The Bell provides the ideal setting to enjoy it to the full.
Subtle tartans and natural wood make for comfortable surroundings
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REFURBI Prince of Wales, Reigate
FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR REIGATE PUB Reigate pub the Prince of Wales, Holmesdale Road has reopened after a £120,000 refurbishment inspired by the pub’s railway history.
The pub interior now features a stylish log burner to welcome weary travellers in from the cold and overhead luggage racks, historical photos and memorabilia.
Named after a steam train and situated next to Reigate station, the pub dates back to the 1850s and was formerly a railway building owned by British Rail.
Longstanding licensees Keith and Theresa Wild are thrilled with the new look. Keith said: “It’s the best pub in the world, completely unrecognisable from before.”
Relaxing in the rear lounge
HISTORIC VILLAGE PUB ENJOYS £90,000 FACELIFT A charming pub situated at the heart of an historic village is looking better than ever. The Rose and Crown at Wrotham has just reopened following a £90,000 facelift. Previously one big open space, the rear dining area of the Shepherd Neame pub has now been screened off to create a cosier, more intimate atmosphere. Exposed brickwork creates a more rustic feel, with other areas of the pub repainted in contemporary colours. The exterior seating area has also enjoyed a revamp, along with a new pergola. Property and tenanted trade director George Barnes said: “The Rose and Crown is at the heart of the village, so our aim was to give it a contemporary look while retaining its unique character and atmosphere.”
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Rose and Crown, Wrotham
SHMENTS WINE OR COFFEE? THAT IS THE QUESTION!
Wine flight sampling
Sommelier Leighton Roberts
Wine, coffee and cake all under one roof – sounds like the perfect combination! Now Canterbury dwellers can enjoy just that at The Shakespeare Wine and Coffee House. Hot on the heels of the re-launch of The Shakespeare, the adjoining pub in Butchery Lane, this stunning wine bar has been incorporated from a former gift shop on Burgate to the rear of the pub. This latest phase brings the total redevelopment investment to £180,000. Two trained sommeliers, Leighton and Paul, will guide you through almost 100 wines on offer from Todd’s the Wine Company. If you’re unsure what to choose why not try a ‘wine flight’, a natty chandelier-style taster tray housing three 50ml official ISO wine tasting glasses. Formal tastings with a sommelier can also be booked. Licensee Dan Sidders said: “It’s about making wine accessible for everyone. None of the wines are more than £5 a glass and we’re encouraging people to try different styles.”
The Shakespeare Wine and Coffee House
FANTASTIC NEW COFFEE EXPERIENCE The perfect cup of coffee is now on offer at your favourite pub.
coffee, including espresso, cappuccino and latté.
Whether you are looking to enjoy some time out on your own or with friends, or need to grab a hot drink on the go, Shepherd Neame’s new Coffee & Ale House brand is the perfect choice.
They will also serve coffee in a cafetiere that includes a timer telling customers the perfect moment to ‘plunge’.
Our pubs are now serving delicious coffee, made from a freshly ground, unique blend of beans created for us by UK Fairtrade firm Roasted, to drink in or take away. State-of-the-art bean-to-cup barista machines are able to offer all your favourite types of
Greg Wallis, tenanted operation manager at Shepherd Neame, said: “Just as our pubs are great places to enjoy freshlycooked food and great cask beer, the combination of high quality coffee and well-trained staff means there’s no reason why they can’t also be the best place in town to enjoy a cup of coffee.”
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FIRST-CLASS PINT The Hop Pole is a traditional community local overlooking the beautiful, Grade II listed Wandsworth Park in West London. Famed for its first-class real ales and lagers, it has reopened after a £60,000 refurbishment. Licensee Colm Lynch, who has been at the pub for 17 years, has built up a popular following for his real ale house. The pub serves award-winning beers as well as both traditional pub food and more exotic Thai dishes and screens major sporting events including GAA Gaelic games.
Hop Pole, Wandsworth
REFURBISHMENTS REFURB ON THE CARDS A couple with experience working in the casino business have taken on Bexleyheath pub the Prince Albert on the Broadway. Husband and wife Barrie and Claire Houghton reopened the pub after a £100,000 refurbishment.
Bricklayers Arms, Bromley
NEW LOOK FOR ‘THE BRICKS’ Bromley pub the Bricklayers Arms, Masons Hill, has benefited from a £60,000 refurbishment. Prince Albert, Bexleyheath
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A vibrant community local, known affectionately by regulars as ‘The Bricks’, the large split-level interior of this early 20th century building has been redecorated in a palette of warm natural tones. The result is a contemporary, sophisticated feel.
The refurbishment included a complete interior and exterior redecoration and the creation of a new function room upstairs.
Regular events at the pub include a music quiz, DJ nights and live music evenings. Sports fans can enjoy Sky TV showing sporting events on four large screens.
Now, the pub is serving up high-quality pub food as well as offering private dining for large groups in a relaxed pub environment.
NEW DIRECTION FOR BISHOPS FINGER One of the oldest British ale brands, Bishops Finger Kentish Strong Ale has been redesigned with a new look that celebrates its Kentish heritage. Using a classic design in harmony with the brewery’s other heritage brands, it maintains its ecclesiastical colour scheme and now features an image of the old bishops finger signpost. First brewed in 1958, Bishops Finger takes its name from the Kentish nickname for an ancient finger-shaped signpost found only in Kent on the Pilgrims Way. It pointed the way to Canterbury and the shrine of Thomas A Becket, before it was destroyed as part of the dissolution of the monastaries in the 16th century. At 5.4% abv Bishops Finger is available in 500ml bottles nationwide in all major supermarkets and good independent retailers and available on cask.
CHECK ME ON SOCIAL MEEJA, BLUD Spitfire Ale’s partnership with comedy duo Armstrong and Miller is going from strength to strength online. The campaign’s adverts and behind-the-scenes videos have clocked up hundreds of thousands of YouTube views since going live last summer. On other platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, social media posts reacting to news items and events have been shared across the world, helping to increase our reach to over 11 million fans.
/spitfireale
@spitfireale
/spitfireale
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BOLD RE-DESIGN FOR SEASONAL ALES The brewery’s established seasonal ale brands have undergone a complete re-design to give the packaging a more eye-catching, contemporary look. The new square pump clip features bold colours and artistic imagery which accentuates their seasonality. The draught seasonal ale range includes:
Amber Ale
Goldings
Brewed for the coldest months of the year
A refreshing summer ale with notes of freshly mown grass
Available from January to March
Available from June to September
Early Bird Spring Hop Ale
Late Red Autumn Hop Ale
Delivers fresh floral notes signalling the arrival of Spring
A hugely popular, triple-hopped ale
Available from March to June
Available from September to December
INNOVATION AT THE NO.18 YARD BREWHOUSE A new range of cask beers is available from The No.18 Yard Brewhouse – home to Shepherd Neame’s pilot brewery. Previously the site of an historic cask store, the pilot brewery was installed in 2007 and has gained a popular following with drinkers seeking diverse, bold and innovative beer. Each beer is branded with an instantly recognisable sleek, contemporary pump clip. The first in the series is Dragonfire (4.5% abv). Brewed especially for St Georges Day, is it a fearsome English ale which combines barley, oats, rye and wheat with two English hop varieties (Goldings and First Gold) and a fiery secret ingredient. It will be available during April and May.
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CONSUMERS DISCOVERING OUR BEERS AT HOME AND... The newest additions to the brewery’s beer portfolio are helping to win accounts at some of the UK’s most prestigious pubs, bars, hotels and restaurants. Beers such as Samuel Adams Boston Lager, Asahi and the Whitstable Bay collection are helping the brewery get listings beyond the usual outlets available to regional brewers. Head of free trade, Giles Hilton, explains: “Our customers are looking for a point of difference on their bar. They want high quality products, with strong technical support behind the scenes. We’re supplying venues highly respected venues such as Bodean’s, Steam and Rye and the Boisdale Group on the strength of being able to offer a wide variety of great beers.”
Steam and Rye Bodean's BBQ Restaurants
General manager for national on-trade, Christian Hamilton says the picture is echoed throughout the country: “We are experiencing success way beyond our traditional South East heartland. Bristol and Cornwall, Manchester and Glasgow are all growth areas for us. Most recently I heard we are available in 21 outlets with ten minutes of each other in Leeds – that’s 250 miles from the brewery!”
SUSHISAMBA
Cabot Place - The Boisdale Group The Oast House, Manchester
Buckinghamshire Golf Club
Catcher in the Rye
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... ACROSS THE WORLD
Serb ia
ENJOYING GLOBAL SUCCESS The launch of Spitfire in Canada and the USA last September has proved a huge hit, prompting plans to introduce the Classic Collection’s India Pale Ale in the North American market this year. Shepherd Neame export manager Olly Scott said: “We have gone from zero to hero in the USA, where drinkers really seem to value the heritage of our brewery and quality of our beers.” Another success story is Russia, which has seen an increase in sales following the introduction of a new export partner there last July. Olly said: “Russia is a big market and as a result of our new exporter we are doubling our expectations from last year’s sales, which is great news.” He added: “We plan to keep expanding into new markets around the world. The fact that we are Britain’s oldest brewer is our unique selling point. We are in the right place at the right time with the right product.”
USA
RUSSIA
EN SWED
Japa n
STARRING ROLE IN TV TRAVEL SHOW Politician turned broadcaster Michael Portillo stopped off at the brewery while filming his latest TV show. The former Minister visited as part of his latest Great British Railway Journeys documentary series for BBC2, in which he travels the country by train, using the famous Victorian railway guide Bradshaw’s Handbook.
Michael Portillo delivering beer in Faversham
Michael met historian and archivist John Owen to learn about Shepherd Neame’s past and discover how the introduction of the railway helped the brewery expand.
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