A Whitley Bay-based brewery has seen its ales go down a storm with a contract coup at the Co-op. Black Storm Brewery’s first deal with a major retailer will see it supply its IPA and Blonde craft ale to 56 Co-op food stores across the region.
The award-winning brewery, which marked only its first anniversary in December, will see two of its craft ales stocked exclusively by the community retailer in new, larger, 500ml bottles.
Paul Hughes, Founder of Black Storm, said, “The team is raising a glass to toast a contract win with the Co-op. With it operating at the heart of local communities and its support and reputation for local sourcing, the listing will provide greater awareness and reach for our brand and, support our continuing growth.
'It is a significant milestone at a key time in our business development. We are delighted and proud to have an opportunity to work with the Co-op with its history, ethos and values, and confident our craft ales will go down a ‘storm’ with its customers.”
Simon Dryell, Head of Local Sourcing, Co-op Food, added, “Craft ale is an exciting category, one where we can see continued sustainable growth as shoppers seek quality products which offer something different.
'The Co-op is committed to investing in its local communities. Our members and customers tell us that local produce is important to them, with provenance and trust key.
'The Co-op is committed to getting closer to what its members and customers want and, care about. Investing and giving back to its communities and providing opportunities to showcase, champion and support great local products.”