Responding to the news that Black Sheep Brewery is to appoint administrators, CAMRA’s Real Ale Cider and Perry Campaigns Director Gillian Hough said:
"The fact that one of the UK's most recognisable independent family brewers has put out a notice to appoint administrators shows just how serious the cost-of-business crisis is for brewers and cider makers. Despite some support being available, CAMRA believes that Government simply hasn't done enough to ensure that brewers are not forced to close by events beyond their control.
“Black Sheep is still actively brewing and producing beer, while their Board are working hard to secure a sale of the business which will protect jobs and ensure they can continue to trade.
“Imminent hikes in fixed costs like business rates and alcohol duty mean brewers and cider makers across the UK will be facing the same 'perfect storm' as the Yorkshire brewery. Black Sheep ales appear regularly at CAMRA events and their cask range is a much-loved sight at bars across the nation’s pubs, so we hope a solution can be found which secures Black Sheep's future."
