We’re pleased to have advised Great British Drinks Company, a newly formed venture, in its acquisition of North Yorkshire’s Black Sheep Brewery in a £6.5 million restoration deal.
The Great British Drinks Company is backed by the family entrepreneurs behind Paramount Retail Group and was established to support the regional craft beer industry in Yorkshire.
The deal, which sees Black Sheep acquired out of administration, preserves 145 roles at the brewery as well as its brands which include Purity Brewing Co, Brew By Numbers, Brick Brewery, North Brewing Company, Magic Rock Brewing and Fourpure Brewing Co.
Black Sheep Brewery was acquired for £4.5 million, with a future investment plan worth more than £2 million set to be implemented to take the business back to growth.
Our Restructuring and Insolvency team advised Great British Drinks Company, which holds links to Saltaire Brewery, on the acquisition. Legal guidance was led by Restructuring Partner Lemi McAuley.
We are proud to have supported the Great British Drinks Company on this important rescue transaction. Black Sheep is a cornerstone of Yorkshire’s brewing industry, and securing its future – along with 145 jobs – is a fantastic result for the region.Lemi McAuley
Restructuring Partner at Hill Dickinson
Ravi Sharma, co-founder of the Great British Drinks Company, said: “This isn’t just a restoration deal, it’s about restoring pride to Yorkshire. The region has a proud brewing heritage, and we could not stand by and let that be lost.
“The next few months will be exciting, the business has some fantastic people, brilliant customers and a group of suppliers that we will be very focused on rebuilding relationships with.”
Lemi McAuley, Restructuring Partner at Hill Dickinson, said: “We are proud to have supported the Great British Drinks Company on this important rescue transaction. Black Sheep is a cornerstone of Yorkshire’s brewing industry, and securing its future – along with 145 jobs – is a fantastic result for the region. With committed investment and the backing of an experienced and passionate ownership team, the business is well positioned to rebuild, grow and continue producing the much‑loved brands that consumers know so well.”