The company said it has filed a notice of intent to appoint an administrator which is a protective measure that allows the company to keep trading as normal while it secures new investment or can explore a potential sale.
The statement said: “It gives us the breathing space we need to protect our people, our brands, and our customers. We’re still brewing. We’re still delivering. We’re still here. The same beers. The same quality. The same passionate team behind every pint.
“As we head into the festive season, our focus remains on what we do best which is making and supplying exceptional beer, cider, and brands that people love.”
The statement added: “To our customers, partners, and supporters we want to say, thank you for standing with us. Your continued loyalty means everything to our team, and together we’re determined to come through this stronger than ever.”
In an updated statement the company confirmed that brewing sites, logistics and supply chain operations are continuing as normal with orders being fulfilled with minimal disruption to delivery schedules.
The business, which supports around 190 jobs across its brewery sites, has put full contingency plans in place to minimise any disruption, including appropriate stock forecasting and robust customer service coverage, it said.
Speaking on behalf of Keystone Brewing Group’s board, CEO Steve Cox said: “This is a pivotal moment for our business but we are still brewing, still delivering, and we are here to stay. The decision to file a notice of intention to appoint administrators was not taken lightly, but it is a responsible and strategic move that allows us to assess the best way forward.
“The fundamentals of the business remain strong — our teams are committed, our brands are well loved, and our operations are resilient. We are focused on emerging from this process stronger and more stable, ready to serve our customers for many years to come.”
Rumours have been circulating about the future of the group which has brands in its portfolio, including Black Sheep Brewery, Purity, Big Drop, North Brewing Co, Brew by Numbers, Magic Rock, FourPure, North Brewing Co and Wolf Pack. It also distributes and sells Hofmeister in Great Britain.
Hofmeister has said there will be “zero disruption” to supplies of its products.
Spencer Chambers, CEO of Hofmeister, said: “We are aware of the developments regarding our logistics partner, Keystone Brewing Group. While the timing is unfortunate for the wider industry, Hofmeister has been monitoring the situation closely and has proactively activated contingency plans to ensure zero disruption to our customers during the critical Christmas trading period.
He added: “We are moving immediately to direct supply arrangements with our wholesale partners, ensuring that stock continues to flow to pubs and bars without interruption. We are sitting on significant stock levels held securely outside of the Keystone network, guaranteeing availability.”
