The Australian beer industry has been dealt a heavy blow as the Grand Ridge Brewing Company, a stalwart in the craft beer scene, has entered into administration.

Nestled in the picturesque Strzelecki Ranges of Victoria's Gippsland region, Grand Ridge has been a beacon of quality and tradition in the Australian brewing landscape since the 1980s.

The news of its administration has sent ripples of concern through the community and the industry at large.

Founded over 35 years ago, Grand Ridge has been a family-owned bastion of the Australian craft beer revolution.

With a modest team of 10 employees, the brewery has prided itself on producing a range of beers and the Twisted Sister cider, all while contributing to the rich tapestry of Aussie beer culture.

Grand Ridge Brewery entered into administration. Image source: Grand Ridge Brewery/Facebook

The founder and owner, Eric Walters, expressed his heartache over the decision to enter voluntary administration, stating, 'This decision was the most difficult in 35 years of operation.'

‘We believe there is no alternative than to file for voluntary administration. Ultimately, we hope to remain operational,’ he continued.

‘It has been an amazing journey, helping build the craft beer revolution in Australia and seeing it flourish into what it is today, and adding to the quality choices for Aussie beer consumers. I am very proud to have been part of this,’ Walters said.

‘Our industry, along with many others, is currently finding business very challenging. We foresee a positive future in a restructured business and are eager to reset and move forward,’ he added.

The administrators, Richard Lawrence and Mitch Ball from Mackay Goodwin, have taken the helm with the intention of selling the business.

‘(The brewery) will continue to trade while Mackay Goodwin undertakes its preliminary investigations,’ a spokesperson stated.

‘We won't be making any comment about possible redundancies during this time.’

‘It is our intention to sell the business, and any interested parties should contact Mackay Goodwin,’ they added.

Grand Ridge's challenges are not unique in the current climate.

The Australian beer industry has been having a tough year, with several breweries, including Wayward, Big Shed, Hawkers, and Golden West, also entering administration.

The pandemic's deferred alcohol excise payments have come back to haunt many, as they banked on a post-COVID recovery that has been stifled by a cost-of-living crisis and rising inflation.

Grand Ridge's plight is mirrored by the Gold Coast-based Black Hops Brewing, which also called in administrators on March 28.

With about 70 employees across its brewery and two taphouses, Black Hops is facing similar challenges, with its Brisbane venue closed while administrators seek urgent sale options.

Administrator David Mansfield said: ‘In these very early days, we are taking over management of the business and commencing a review of its financial position.’

The craft beer industry in Australia has been a vibrant and innovative sector, with small breweries often leading the charge in creating unique and high-quality beers.

These breweries have not only been businesses but also community hubs, where locals and visitors alike could gather to enjoy a pint and the camaraderie that comes with it.

As we reflect on the situation, it's essential to consider the broader implications for the Australian craft beer industry and small businesses in general.

The current economic environment is proving to be a formidable challenge for many, with rising costs and changing consumer habits.

Key Takeaways

• Grand Ridge Brewing Company has entered voluntary administration, calling in administrators from Mackay Goodwin.
• The business, a family-owned brewery established in the 1980s in Victoria's Gippsland region, will continue to trade while under administration.
• Founder Eric Walters expressed that the decision was extremely difficult but hopes to see the business continue operating post-restructuring.
• The Australian beer industry has been hit hard, with Grand Ridge being one of several breweries to go into administration recently, partly due to deferred alcohol excise payments and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

How do you feel about the changing landscape of the Australian beer industry? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

 

[Bill MacL]

Too many of them.

 

[Buchanfarmer]

I recall buying a Grand Ridge collection not long after it opened. It’s a great taste and very good beers. I pray it can be recovered and once again have a thriving trade nit only fir the owners who have put their everything into it, but the workers as well. I think this would make a very good export product to Germany to be honest

 

[Jest]

these breweries are a dime a dozen now. not all can make a living.

 

[Lolali]

I recall buying a Grand Ridge collection not long after it opened. It’s a great taste and very good beers. I pray it can be recovered and once again have a thriving trade nit only fir the owners who have put their everything into it, but the workers as well. I think this would make a very good export product to Germany to be honest

Beer to Germany? Very sad they had to close down.