Amity Brew Co
Business Loans Case Study
Amity Brew Co was founded by experienced beer experts Rich Degnan and Russell Clarke during the 2010 Covid lockdown. The craft brewery operates a taproom at Sunny Bank Mills in Farsley, Leeds and a new brewery operation at Albion Mills, Greengates, Bradford.
The company
Amity Brew Co makes fresh, modern interpretations of classic beer styles, as well as experimenting with the new. The company stands for ‘community, friendship and good beer’.
The challenge
Rich and Russell are keen to increase Amity Brew Co’s beer sales elsewhere in the UK as well as supply new markets in Europe, Asia and Scandinavia.
Finance Yorkshire involvement
A £150,000 investment from Finance Yorkshire’s loan fund is supporting Amity Brew Co’s fit out of the new brewing operation at Albion Mills.
Rich said: “We are ambitious to expand our offer to customers across West Yorkshire as well as further afield. With the support of Finance Yorkshire, our new brewery operation will enable us to stay true to our vision of community, friendship and good beer while extending our reach to a much wider customer base.”
The investment rationale
Alex McWhirter, CEO of Finance Yorkshire, said: “In a short space of time, the Amity Brew Co team have established a solid and exciting brand which is ready to broaden its appeal to a larger home and a new and developing overseas market.
“Finance Yorkshire is looking forward to supporting Amity Brew Co with investment for its new brewery and equipment which will help fulfil the team’s enthusiastic growth ambitions – particularly as a community-orientated business.”
Future expectations
Finance Yorkshire’s investment has also enabled Amity Brew Co to strengthen its team with the appointment of Josh Waldock as sales and events manager. A well-known figure in the craft beer industry, Josh brings over a decade of experience and a passion for connecting people and building relationships.
“My journey started behind the bar where I developed a deep appreciation for the art of brewing and the stories that come with every pint,” said Josh. “Whether it’s collaborating with like-minded breweries, organising unforgettable events or exploring new ways to grow, I’m all about making meaningful connections that drive results. I’m excited to be part of Amity as we build something special in Bradford and beyond.”