Brisbane lures Scottish craft beer pioneer BrewDog
Brisbane is raising a glass to craft beer company BrewDog following the Scottish pioneer’s decision to build its Australian facility in the city.
The multinational company, which is the forefront of the craft beer revolution in Europe, today announced plans to set up a brewing facility in Brisbane, with production to commence by 2019.
Brisbane City Council and its economic development board Brisbane Economic Development Agency collaborated with the Queensland Government to secure BrewDog’s investment.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said the $30 million investment had the potential to create more than 150 new jobs.
“BrewDog’s decision to make Brisbane its Australian headquarters is a vote of confidence in our pro-business approach, and will complement our strong local craft beer industry that includes Newstead Brewing and Green Beacon,” Cr Quirk said.
“Growing Brisbane’s food and beverage industry is a priority of the Brisbane 2022 New World City Action Plan, so I’m delighted that Council and Brisbane EDA could assist BrewDog throughout the competitive decision process.
“Brisbane is a place where market-leading and innovative businesses can thrive, and I’m certain BrewDog will feel at home in our welcoming and progressive city.”
Brisbane EDA CEO Brett Fraser said the BrewDog facility was an example of the city’s strategy to attract international investment in key growth sectors.
“Brisbane EDA’s award-winning investment attraction team worked closely with BrewDog in their search for a suitable location, providing strategic support every step of the way,” Mr Fraser said.
“Our city has a reputation for producing high quality food and beverage products, and this rapidly evolving sector has an important role to play in Brisbane’s long-term economic growth.
“The ease of doing business here, coupled with low costs, growing infrastructure and extensive support services all contribute to Brisbane being recognised as an attractive investment destination.”
BrewDog has identified a site a Murarrie as its preferred location. The facility will initially serve the Australian market, with the potential to export to New Zealand and Asia.
The announcement came after a recent survey by brewing historian Dr Brett J. Stubbs found more craft breweries opened in Brisbane in 2017 than any other Australian city.
