The group behind Christchurch’s small and experimental Concept Brewing have taken over the larger Volstead Trading Co and brewery, continuing the consolidation of the industry that’s been the trend of the past year.
And the owners are joined by American Steve Sloan, who previously ran Pittsburgh’s Roundabout Brewery before moving to New Zealand with his Kiwi wife Dyana.
Concept was started by Hamish Jones but he sold it last year to long-time friends Mike Hines and Alban Beaumont. Jones stayed on as brewer and has now joined the pair in buying Volstead and will be the head brewer.
Sloan will focus on quality assurance, recipe development, brewing innovation and helping shape the future direction of both Volstead and Concept Brewing.
Hines who works as a business broker, said the decision to buy Volstead had economic upsides in as much as one brewer will now produce beer for two brands. And it fast-tracks plans they’d had for putting Concept beers into cans as well as finding a taproom.
Riccarton-based Volstead was one of the first post-earthquake craft breweries to start in Christchurch but after 13 years, owner-brewer Jason Ray has decided to go back fulltime to his previous career as a lawyer.
“Volstead is a bit of a Christchurch institution,” said Hines.
“It has good bones, a loyal customer base, and an important place in the local craft beer scene. Like many businesses, it’s been through a few challenges in recent years, but we see enormous potential in what it can become.”
“The brewery itself was a major attraction for us,” said Hines.
“It gives us a platform to continue growing. The larger-scale equipment and canning line mean we can increase production while maintaining quality and ultimately get our beers into more people’s hands.”
The team believes the combination of brewery and bar creates a unique opportunity to strengthen both businesses.
Sloan is an award-winning brewer who recently moved to Christchurch with his wife Dyana, who originally hails from Canterbury.
“Having Steve involved is incredibly exciting,” said Hines.
“Brewers of his calibre don’t arrive in Christchurch every day. His experience, technical expertise and track record speak for themselves.”
While customers can expect some improvements and fresh ideas, the new owners say the focus will be on building upon what already exists rather than changing Volstead’s identity.
“This isn’t about reinventing Volstead,” said Hines.
“It’s about investing in it, refreshing it where needed, and helping it realise its potential. We want to create a brewery and venue that Christchurch can continue to be proud of.”
“At a time when many people are talking about contraction in the industry, we’re choosing to invest. We think that’s good news for craft beer, good news for Christchurch, and good news for everyone who enjoys seeing independent businesses succeed.”