Big Things Brewing Down On the West Coast

Big Things Brewing Down On the West Coast

Some might regard the West Coast as a bit of Sleepy Hollow. Not So if you are in the Brewing Business

On the 30 the March a company headed up by Good Bastards founder Paddy Sweeney Purchased Miners Brewery in Westport.

The Company immediately changed the name to The West Coast Brewery and also renamed the various Brews.

A brave move for a new company but one that looks like having paid off.

While the Previous owners have successfully operated for fourteen years, in its first month of operation the new owners have now secured seven new bars and two clubs throughout Marlborough and The West Coast regions to take its kegs.

The company has a very proactive approach to marketing and service said Sweeney.

"We look at what the big boys are doing with their publicans and patrons then figure out what we have to do multiply what they doing by ten times the benefit for the clients. We can't wait for them to get their fat cheque books out and to start buying back the customers we are pinching off them.

We have a plan for that that will see that backfire. Remember what happened when Montieths tried to move away from the Coast."

Later this month Sweeney is hosting a series of what is called "Paddy's Shout". An innovative evening in different establishment, where patrons are invited to a beer tasting, some food and Sweeney in fine form telling a few gags. Over a thousand dollars worth of prizes each evening will compliment the program. "

"This, one of many innovations will extend throughout the country as we gain more market share" he said

The company expects to start its first rep on the road in June have already acquired a new car which is being signwritten for the role.

"This persons sole role will be to bring on new establishments for our seven products and be heavily assisted by our support team looking after the Publicans.

Radio and Newspapers are already heavily in play on the West Coast in getting the company's message out there and that will extend throughout the country as they open up more new ground.

A weekly program is underway where a weekly Legend - Larrikin is found from within one of their patron drinkers and enjoys that recognition in the four papers and two radio stations on the West Coast. This program will extend to every corner of the country.

"TV Advertising commences later in the year throughout the South Island and will have some interesting twists involved" said Sweeney.

He added that they have literally dozens of innovations that we are introducing for both publicans and their patrons. There is so many things not being done in this industry that it is a smorgasbord of what we can do.

He remained tight lipped as to just what these might be. "Just keep an eye on us and see how small change can out innovate the big money."

Sweeney is a successful Author and accomplished Franchisor living in Australia said he is intending on relocating back to New Zealand in the future. At present he commutes every couple of weeks.

His Australian Company in 1996 was runner up in an award for the most innovative company in Queensland. It is that flare for innovation that he believes will continue to capture market share on the West Coast and further afield.

He and the group of mates that have joined him in funding the venture have big plans for the company both in NZ and overseas.

The company has a high profile board of directors including retired Castlemaine 4X CEO Barry MacAlister.

The company expects its prospectus to be approved in about a month which will see funds raised to further its expansion.

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