Stroud Brewery has just turned 18 years old, hosting its three-day Malty Story Festival to say thank you to the community for its role in its continued success.
As the brewery officially 'comes of age', its founder and managing director, Greg Pilley, reflects on how far the business has come and the importance of its community-led approach.
Its taproom is less an 'altar to beer' and more a community hub, hosting everything from board game nights to bungee aerobics, and Greg believes the brewery's connection to the local community is fundamental.
'We’re really chuffed that our taproom and facilities have made us a hub for local life with so many people coming here to run clubs, activities, events and to celebrate milestones.
'When I set up the brewery in 2006, my long-term hope was that it would become a place where people would meet to develop new ideas, build their social lives, to discuss the nature of life as well as their hopes and dreams, laugh, learn and grow.
'We’ve also led the way in adopting sustainable and ethical practices and started doing this before it was heard of within hospitality — and the support of Stroud was reassuring to remind us we were doing the right thing!
'We became the first UK brewery to be certified as both organic and a B Corporation. Another proud moment.'
Looking to the future, Greg said: 'We’re confident we’ll be here in another 18 years as we have plenty to be proud of — our great tasting, organic beer has won nine awards just in this year alone so we’re obviously getting the hang of this brewing lark!'
But with the hospitality industry facing an uncertain future in increasingly punishing conditions, he says community connections are more important than ever for pubs.
'In a time when companies look outwards to create new business opportunities and maximise profits to thrive, we think the answer lies by looking closer to home.
'From our very beginning, we’ve seen it as a vital part of our business model to have a strong connection with our local community.
'Pubs have always had to evolve and by redefining their role to provide a supportive and inclusive space for anyone whatever their background and situation – not simply just offering food and drink — the future for our pubs, as well as our communities and the environment, will flourish and prosper.'
For more information — and to see what's on at the taproom — visit stroudbrewery.com.
