Craft brewing, cider making and distilling

Starting a brewery, cidery or distillery can be a rewarding experience for someone who is passionate about creating craft beer, cider or spirits. It is a business that benefits from creative and innovative thinking.

It is important to carefully consider factors like marketing, licensing and finance, and plan thoroughly before you start.

Market research

Craft alcohol is a competitive market. To succeed, your product will need to stand out from competitors. Market research and customer-focused product development are vital.

Research products that are already available and consider how yours is different. This is your unique selling point. For example, are you offering innovative flavours or does your product relate to local history?

The following guides will help you position your product:

• researching new product and service ideas
• create your marketing strategy
• write a marketing plan
• understand your customers' needs
• market research and market reports

Business plan

One of the first things you should do for any business is to write a business plan. This is a written document that will outline your objectives, strategies, the market and your financial forecasts. A business plan can be crucial to securing funding. Your local council may be able to help you with developing a business plan.

Licensing

There are many ways to sell your products directly to the public; however, you will need a licence. Always follow the rules for selling alcohol and, where necessary, apply for a licence to sell alcohol.

Read more about selling craft beer, cider and spirits.

Costs and funding

There are significant set-up costs when starting a brewery, cidery or distillery. This includes your premises, equipment and ingredients. Work out how much money you need to start your business.

Some new businesses choose to work on contract with an existing facility to use their premises and equipment, or have the product made on their behalf. Other ways to cut costs include using second-hand equipment.

There are a number of ways to raise finance for new businesses. One option that may be effective for a new brewery, cidery or distillery is crowdfunding. This involves asking a large number of people to each invest a small amount of money.

You will also need to consider cashflow management when planning your business.