Shropshire breweries raise glass to deals with Co-op
Breweries in Shropshire are raising a glass to contract wins with the Co-op after the retailer rolled-out its local sourcing programme in the county.
Five breweries are now supplying more than 15 locally-brewed ales to over 20 of the community retailer’s stores across Shropshire.
The sourcing programme has given contacts to Hop and Stagger, which began at the rear of the White Lion pub in Bridgnorth, and has relocated to the Apley Estate.
Others include Stonehouse Brewery, near Oswestry, which marked its tenth anniversary last year with the launch of a new bottling plant, has secured its largest retail deal to date, supplying the Co-op with three of its bottled ales.
The six-barrel Hop and Stagger brewery, which relocated to the Apley Estate in 2015, supplies its First Gold – which takes its name from the main hop used in its making; Bridgnorth Porter and, Shropshire Pale Ale – a draught ale which was introduced to bottles for the Co-op.
The Wood Brewery, at Wistanstow, which supplies its Shropshire Lass and Shropshire Lad and agreed a deal, along with Hobsons Brewery of Cleobury Mortimer, and Hadnall based Salopian Brewery.
While the Hadnall-based Salopian brewery - a long-standing supplier to the Co-op – provides its Shropshire Gold; Oracle; Darwin’s Origin and Lemon Dream.
Simon Dryell, head of local sourcing at the Co-op, said: “Locally brewed ale is an exciting category where we see continued sustainable growth as craft ale followers look for something that tastes different, while retaining the passion, history and tradition that goes into brewing quality ales.
"Our members and customers tell us that provenance and trust is important to them, and we are dedicated to delivering just that.
"As a community retailer, the Co-op is committed to investing in its local communities, exploring new ways to showcase, celebrate and support great quality locally produced food and drink. Providing the products that our members and customers want and care about.”
