The "world's-first" zero-carbon alcohol-free brewery is set to open in Wales, under new plans. Drop Bear Brewery have submitted an application to open a sustainable brewery on the outskirts of Abergavenny.
The plans represent an investment of £1.9million, and would create local jobs as part of the green economy. The business already has significant sustainable credentials and the new location would be a chance to improve that even further.
The planned brewery includes warehousing space, a cool room, offices, brewing, packaging and canning facilities. It would give the business space to produce all of its alcohol-free, vegan, and gluten-free beer.
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Drop Bear Brewery was founded by Joelle Drummond, 28, and Sarah McNena, 29, back in 2019. The Swansea-based business now has over 20 awards to its name, including the UK's top brewer of non-alcoholic beers. If approvted, the new site will be on Celliwig Farm on the outskirts of Abergavenny.
In 2021, Drop Bear Beer were awarded the elite B Corporation status, which means that it is held to high standards on ethics and sustainability. It is the only brewery in Wales to have this status.
Co-founder Joelle said: "From a business perspective, it will allow us to be more sustainable and responsible moving forwards. We will be able to be a carbon neutral brewery.
"Abergavenny is the food and drink capital of Wales, so it is already set up for a good quality new food and drink business. We are really lucky that our business is growing and we are in a position to create new jobs in the area. Our B Corp status means that we are legally required to put people and planet over profit, and that's something we are really passionate about.
"It's not just new jobs but it's ethical and sustainable jobs. The green economy is still something that centres around London, but the demand is everywhere. We are really pleased to be part of this in a more rural location."
Drop Bear Beer currently produce four beers, all of which have an ABV of 0.5 or less. They aim to be accessible to all customers, so all the beers are also vegan and gluten-free.
According to plans submitted to Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, the change of use from an agricultural building to a modern brewery "provides an opportunity to regenerate the site and give a new purpose to the building". The company proposes to use materials traditionally found on agricultural sites in the area.
The company’s aim to create a green brewery is being supported by a £92,000 grant from the Welsh Government’s Decarbonisation and Covid Challenge Fund. A consultation period for neighbours is open until April 6, with a decision expected a month later.
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