VIDEO: Northern Monk raises a glass

Northern Monk Brew Co has outlined further plans for growth – including international expansion – after a successful move to a new manufacturing site. The brewery, run by Russell Bisset, has increased its capacity by two-thirds since relocating from Bradford to The Old Flax Store at Marshalls Mill in Leeds in August 2014 thanks to a £26,500 grant from the LEP.

Tapping into the export market

The grant was part of a wider £132,000 investment by the company which has seen Mr Bisset and his team transform what was a derelict building into a thriving community asset, manufacturing more than 10,000 pints a week.

Mr Bisset, a former international business development manager, said: “We’re presently exporting to countries including the US, Germany, Italy and Spain and international trade is a key growth area for Northern Monk Brew Co.”

Grant supports new business venture

As well as manufacturing its full range of beers at the its historic base, a key site in the industrial revolution,  Northern Monk Brew Co has created a popular tap room on site showcasing Northern Monk and a kitchen run by its partner The Grub & Grog Shop.

Roger Marsh, Chair of the LEP, said: “The micro brewing industry here in the Leeds City is in good health with some fantastic and successful businesses having been established in recent years.

“Northern Monk Brew Co is a great example of an innovative company not only investing in the future but also breathing life once again into one of our most important historic landmarks.”    

Cheers to the future

Mr Bisset added: “As a manufacturing company we feel a real affiliation with the industrial heritage of Leeds and we are rightly proud of showcasing this.

“From a business perspective the performance of Northern Monk Brew Co since our move to The Old Flax Store has surpassed our expectations and we’re excited about the future opportunities.”