Harbour Brewing Co has announced plans for the next stage of its growth journey, following a successful year for the founder-led business which saw sales grow by 26%.
As part of this refreshed strategy, St Austell Brewery — a longstanding minority investor in Harbour since 2022 — has increased its investment to support the next phase of growth.
This follows the decision by Harbour’s long-standing investor, and majority shareholder, Rick Rowse, to step away at this stage.
Harbour is building on its momentum with a renewed focus on brand development, portfolio innovation and continuing to expand its reach outside of the South West. The brewery will be unveiling a new look in the spring, following an extensive brand and portfolio review completed at the end of last year.
“Since we launched the company in 2012, Harbour has always been about brewing great beer for people who care about craftsmanship, provenance, and flavour,” said managing director Eddie Lofthouse.
“We’ve had a strong year of growth, and this next phase is about continuing to build a sustainable, progressive business that stays true to our roots. In the spring, we’re excited to be unveiling a refreshed brand direction and new additions to our portfolio.”
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On St Austell’s increased stake, Eddie added: “It’s important to us that Harbour remains independent and rooted in Cornwall. The increased investment from St Austell Brewery enables us to accelerate our plans, while staying firmly in control of the things that make Harbour unique.
“St Austell Brewery is a family-owned and independent brewery with shared values, and their support gives us stability and shared expertise, without changing who we are.”
Kevin Georgel, chief executive of St Austell Brewery, said: “The opportunity to increase our investment reflects confidence in Harbour’s momentum and our shared values as independent brewers.
“We’re proud to support the brand’s growth in our pubs and through our wholesale network, introducing more beer drinkers to Harbour across the South West and beyond, and building on its already strong market position in London.”
