A Manchester micro-brewery that specialises in experimental ales, lagers & beers is toasting a record year for production after boosting sales in international markets.
Marble Beers attributes its growing success to a string of collaboration projects and limited-edition releases which have a growing fan base at home, in Europe and further afield.
The brewery, which has its 21st birthday this year, is based in two railway arches in Williamson Street and the company boasts three popular beer focused venues in the city – The Marble Arch Inn, 57 Thomas Street and Marble Beerhouse, employing 48 members of staff in total.
It also has a growing e-commerce operation, shipping beers and merchandise to aficionados across the globe.
Jan Rogers, director at Marble Beers, said: “This year is shaping up to be really exciting for us. Demand from foreign markets is seeing excellent growth, while our UK customer base continues to expand.
“I think what makes us successful is that we pride ourselves on creating products that we love to drink. We are always keen to experiment, and this year have plans for three new ranges, we are planning a sour programme, a hoppy range and some big adjunct stouts.”.
The business produced 4,140 hectolitres last year – the equivalent of around 730,000 pints of beer and whilst planning to stay under The Small Brewers Relief threshold, production is set to increase by 500 hectolitres this year.
The company is being advised by North West accountancy firm MHA Moore and Smalley, including advice on research and development tax relief.
The company invests significant sums in R&D which it uses to develop new flavour profiles, improve processes and increase the quality of beer including freshness, product stability and small pack shelf life.
Stephen Haywood, tax manager at MHA Moore and Smalley, added: “Marble’s research into new flavours, yeast, hops and barrelling techniques is what makes it stand out from the crowd.
“It’s commitment to innovation has enabled the business to claim back significant funds in research and development tax relief, which can then be reinvested back into growing the business.”
Founded in 1997, Marble Beers specialises in innovative cask, keg, can and bottled beer. The brewery was originally housed in the rear of The Marble Arch Inn before moving to Williamson Street in 2009.
