Hopes are growing that Arran’s award-winning brewery which called in administrators last week will be taken over and its 11 jobs saved.
Joint administrators Graham Martin and Laurie Manson of PricewaterhouseCoopers confirmed this week that there had been one expression of interest in Arran Brewery Company Limited and they expected more.
The brewery, based at Cladach, is famous for its Arran Blonde, Arran Dark, Arran Sunset and Arran Ale. It has been going for eight years.
The administrators were called in last Thursday. The problems have been put down to cash flow caused by operational difficulties in getting the product to market in sufficient volumes.
It was expected that jobs would inevitably go but the fight is on to save as many as possible.
Graham Martin said: ‘The beer produced by the company has been very well received in its markets and has already won several awards.
‘We expect interest from parties who will have the ability to take the business to the next stage of its development in continuing to expand its brand presence and its channel to market.
‘The building will be of interest to an existing brewer seeking to add brands to its portfolio or an individual seeking to take advantage of the lifestyle afforded by operating such a business on the island.’
The brewery had plenty of stock and was still brewing, the administrators said. None of the jobs had gone yet.
Elisabeth Roberts, co-owner with husband Richard of the brewery, did not wish to comment.
Islanders have been saddened by the news. Tommy Gilmore, owner of the Ormidale Hotel who stocks the beers, said he hoped a buyer would soon be found and the jobs saved.
‘Their beers are really popular, especially the Blonde, which is renowned nationwide,’ he said.
MSP for Arran Ken Gibson pledged that he and the Scottish government would do what they could.
‘I have been in touch with Jim Mather, minister for enterprise, energy and tourism, who has agreed to provide any assistance he can,’ said Mr Gibson. ‘The situation appears to be that the brewery cannot get its products to the supermarket and other mainland outlets in sufficient quantities.
‘As premium products they have established a niche for themselves. I am keen to see the brewery survive, either independently or as part of another company with a strong distribution network. It is vital that as many of the 11 jobs as possible are saved and production on Arran continues.’
The brewery began production in the year 2000 and that year won its first award. More followed in quick succession.
