Saltaire Brewery Taps into Funding

Award-winning Saltaire Brewery has enjoyed rapid growth since being set up in 2004 by Managing Director Tony Gartland. However, securing the commercial investment to achieve ambitious growth plans in a difficult economic climate was proving impossible. Tony avoided putting his plans on ice by seeking the support of the Local Enterprise Partnership.

The business had £60,000 to £70,000 of the capital required, leaving a shortfall of around 20%. A Business Advisor from Bradford Council who had heard of Tony’s expansion plans suggested that he apply for a grant via Leeds City Region. Tony applied and received a £12,000 Business Growth Programme grant that enabled the brewery to purchase container stock to distribute beer to the on-trade and retailers and take on new employees.

£12,000 of vital funding secured

The funding and investment in new equipment and casks accelerated growth and brought the whole investment to life. Production increased from 6,240 casks per quarter to 7,520. Annual turnover grew from £1.6m to almost £2m – an increase of £90,000 per quarter.

This capital injection is helping the brewery grow over the next two to three years and meet the increasing demand from supermarkets. Over the next five years, Tony aims to increase brewing capacity by approximately 50%, and in 2014 raise exports from 2.3% of production to an impressive 10%. This increased production and sales has already resulted in the recruitment of three new members of staff and could result in future employment opportunities at the brewery.

Funding that’s a catalyst for growth

Tony believes that Business Growth Programme grants can give businesses a vital injection of confidence and support for growth. “It’s really good to see a level of investment coming through the LEP in this way to stimulate small businesses and create jobs.”

The grant also enabled Tony to improve facilities for 15 full and part-time employees, including the provision of a new staff room, personal lockers and WC facilities.

“I found the whole process to be very easy indeed. Leeds City Region LEP was extremely helpful and easy to work with. In fact, I’ve already recommended the Business Growth Programme to two or three other SMEs, one in this sector.”

Tony Gartland, Managing Director, Saltaire Brewery

Roger Marsh, Chair of the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership said:

“Tony’s story brings to life the impact of the Business Growth Programme on small companies as well as the business opportunities it can open across the city region.”

“The Leeds City Region has thousands of unique SMEs who need a helping hand to achieve their growth ambitions and the Business Growth Programme can support them to achieve these goals.”

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