Major UK Brewery Keystone Rescued from Administration in £6.5 Million Deal
In a significant development for the British brewing industry, Keystone, a major UK brewery responsible for producing three of the nation's top beers, has been saved from administration. The company has been acquired by the newly-formed Great British Drinks Company in a deal worth £6.5 million, securing the future of the brewery and its workforce.
Securing Jobs and Preserving Brewery Sites
The acquisition is set to safeguard approximately 145 jobs across Keystone's operations, which employ roughly 190 staff nationwide. Crucially, all three of Keystone's existing brewery sites will be maintained and revitalised under the new ownership. This move ensures continuity for the breweries and provides stability for employees and local communities dependent on these facilities.
New Ownership and Strategic Vision
The Great British Drinks Company, backed by the entrepreneurs behind Paramount Retail Group, has outlined a clear vision for Keystone's future. Unlike previous approaches that might have focused on consolidation, the new owners have committed to preserving the distinctiveness and independence of each brewery and its brands.
Great British Drinks Company co-founder Sunny Sharma emphasised this philosophy, stating: "Our approach is to ensure each brewery and its brands maintain their distinctiveness and independence, that only comes from the people and places involved, not through consolidation. Our ethos is one of stewardship."
Geographical Changes for London Brands
While the acquisition preserves Keystone's core operations, it does bring geographical changes for some brands. Former London-based labels including Brew By Numbers, Brick, and Fourpure will now be brewed in Masham, North Yorkshire, rather than in the capital. This relocation represents a strategic shift in production locations while maintaining the brands' availability to consumers.
Long-Term Commitment to Regional Craft Beer
The Great British Drinks Company, founded in January 2026 and based in Yorkshire, has articulated a mission to support regional craft beer across Britain. The company already operates Saltaire Brewery and its brands, which it has managed since 2024, transforming it into a sustainable business.
Sharma explained: "The Great British Drinks Company was founded in January 2026 with a mission to back regional craft beer" and revealed that "the founders are also passionate local beer lovers." This acquisition places Keystone's breweries alongside Saltaire Brewery's brands within a portfolio dedicated to nurturing British brewing heritage.
Leadership Perspective on the Transition
Keystone Brewing Group's board and CEO Steve Cox acknowledged the significance of this transition, noting that the group's next move "was not taken lightly." The careful consideration behind this acquisition suggests a strategic approach to securing Keystone's future while aligning with the Great British Drinks Company's vision for the industry.
This rescue deal represents not just a financial transaction but a commitment to preserving British brewing craftsmanship, supporting regional economies, and maintaining the diversity of the UK's beer landscape for years to come.
