Community brewery raises a glass to expansion

A Devon-based community brewery is expanding operations after securing new social investment to support jobs for people with learning disabilities and autism.

The Ivybridge Brewing Company has received £25,000 from social impact investor Resonance through its Resonance Enterprise Investment fund. 

Bosses say the funding has enabled the social enterprise to expand into a neighbouring building near the River Erme, refurbish its taproom and increase brewing and cold room capacity.

A new fermenter has been installed to meet rising demand for its core and seasonal beers, with more than 10,000 bottles and 16,000 pints sold across regional outlets.

Simon Rundle, Ivybridge Brewing Company’s founder and chief executive, said: “We’ve realised that our motto, ‘great beer changing lives’, extends beyond the people who come in and work with us.

“It encompasses all our customers visiting the taproom - their lives are changed just by experiencing a world where people with learning disabilities and autism work in a welcoming and positive environment.

“The overarching theme is confidence.

“People who work here all feel confident, and that comes from being part of a community, having friends, solving problems, being proud to make a product.

“They feel better about themselves.”

Leila Sharland, head of growing enterprises at Resonance, added: “Companies, such as Ivybridge Brewing Company, are providing an award-winning product while offering work experience for people who may otherwise face barriers to employment.

“We’re delighted to help the team expand their operations to provide a valuable social enterprise in the heart of the community.”

Founded eight years ago, the brewery now employs and supports 16 people, most of whom have a learning disability or are neurodiverse. 

Nia, 26, who has learning disabilities and works at the brewery, added: “I enjoy meeting new people, helping the customers and being with my friends.

“It means a lot to me.”

Jason, 30, who started working at the brewery after lockdown, added: “I work in the taproom and I do bottling – I like it all.

“I love the atmosphere here and working with people.”

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