Black Sheep saves York Brewery & pubs

Black Sheep Brewery of Masham, North Yorkshire, has bought York Brewery, transferring in excess of 40 jobs to its business. The brewery entered administration on Thursday 13 December, together with its parent company, Mitchell’s of Lancaster. 

Black Sheep has acquired the £2.1m-turnover York Brewery and brands as well as four outlets in the business as part of the deal, which is for an undisclosed sum. The brewery will continue to operate and the pubs include: 

• Last Drop Inn, York
• Mr Foley’s Tap House, Leeds
• The Tap Room, York
• The Three Legged Mare, York 

The acquisition, which was facilitated by joint Administrators, Steven Muncaster and Sarah Bell of Duff & Phelps Ltd, builds on a positive year for Black Sheep, which returned to profit in 2018. 

Andy Slee, chairman of Black Sheep (pictured right), says: “This acquisition fits perfectly with our strategy of developing our presence in our Yorkshire heartland and owning pubs. 

“Entering administration was worrying for the team at York Brewery, but our deal offers some comfort that its successful brand can be maintained, and the pubs can continue to operate.  York Brewery complements our strong brands and by acting quickly we have been able to provide a good outcome for both organisations.” 

Rob Theakston, managing director of Black Sheep (left in picture), adds: “Over the past 26 years we have produced some of the UK’s most iconic, award-winning beers, and the purchase of another long-standing brewery will secure the future of another well-respected Yorkshire brand.  

“It also starts our journey into retail which was announced at the AGM in September. We are delighted with the acquisition.” 

Steven Muncaster, managing director, Duff & Phelps, says, “Despite being a popular destination for both locals and tourists, York Brewery unfortunately continued to face cashflow pressures, ultimately resulting in it being placed into administration. However, we’re delighted to have secured a sale for York Brewery, which is especially pleasing so close to Christmas.”