Should you open a microbrewery pub?
by Northern Life
Microbrewery pubs are becoming a familiar sight across the UK. They offer something different from the usual selection of lagers and ales found in most pubs.
Whether you run a pub and want to expand your offering or are thinking of starting from scratch, a microbrewery pub could be an exciting opportunity. Before you dive in, though, it’s important to understand how they work and what’s involved in running one successfully.
What are microbrewery pubs?
A microbrewery pub is a pub that brews beer on-site. Instead of relying on big-name breweries, you create the recipes, brew the beer and serve it directly to customers. Some microbrewery pubs only sell their beer, whereas others stock a mix of house brews and guest ales.
The main appeal is freshness. Unlike mass-produced beer, which is brewed, transported, and stored for weeks before it reaches a pint glass, microbrewed beer is served straight from the source.
Things to consider before opening a microbrewery pub
Licensing Requirements
Brewing your beer comes with additional legal requirements. In the UK, you must be registered as a brewer with HMRC and hold a premises licence that allows you to sell alcohol. If you plan to distribute your beer beyond your pub, you may need additional licences. Local councils may also require planning permission for brewing equipment, so it’s important to check regulations early on.
Appropriate Cover
Looking into whether you have a level of pub insurance suitable for your plans is a useful step here, as brewing comes with many risks. Alongside standard public liability insurance, considerations might include stock insurance to protect raw ingredients and finished beer, employers’ liability insurance, if you have staff, and business interruption cover in case brewing operations, are disrupted as a direct result of insured physical damage at your business premises.
Health and Safety
Brewing involves heat and chemicals, so safety is a priority. Proper ventilation for handling CO2, strict cleaning protocols to prevent contamination, and regular equipment maintenance are also crucial. Staff training is also crucial, not just for brewing but also for handling raw ingredients and machinery safely.
Microbreweries also fall under food safety regulations, meaning environmental health officers can inspect at any time. Keeping detailed records will help you stay compliant.
Final Thoughts
Microbrewery pubs are more than just a place to drink. The ability to serve fresh, house-brewed beer sets them apart, giving customers something they can’t get anywhere else. But running one takes serious planning and the correct setup.
If you’re prepared for the extra work, a microbrewery pub can be a rewarding way to run a business while doing something you’re passionate about. With the growing demand for independent, high-quality beer, now could be the perfect time to get started.
