Draft press release

REAL ALE PASSION PRESENTS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

A passion for locally brewed real ales has been turned into a successful business by Derbyshire brothers Michael and Richard Butt.

With the help of Derbyshire Enterprise Agency (DEA) they have opened a new shop that specialises in locally brewed, quality bottled and cask conditioned ales.

Since it first opened its doors in June this year, the Real Ale Corner in Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, has proved a huge success with sales 30 per cent above initial expectations.

Explained Richard: “We had done a lot of research before launching the business and knew there was a demand for local beers that can be hard to find in supermarkets and traditional off licences - but we have been overwhelmed by the response so far.

“In addition to customers from the Chesterfield area, because of our location we are getting a lot of passing trade from people on their way to and from the Peak District.

“As well as being good for our business, this is also helping to raise the profile of Derbyshire beers across the country.”

In addition to location, critical to the Real Ale Corner’s success has been the backing of the local branch of the Campaign for Real Ale and the support offered by DEA, which delivers Business Link start-up services in Derbyshire.

Both Richard and Michael attended a series of business training workshops as well as receiving ongoing help and advice from start-up business advisor Peter Morgan.

Continued Richard: “We attended several workshops that covered business planning and sales and marketing, but because we both work full-time in other jobs we couldn’t attend the full programme. However Peter has always been on hand to offer further guidance and answer any questions we have.”

Whilst the brothers still work full-time, Richard in the construction industry and Michael for a drug rehabilitation charity in Sheffield, they hope that the Real Ale Corner will soon take up all of their time.

They are currently developing a website to promote online sales of their beers, which include ales and ciders produced locally at micro-breweries such as Thornbridge, Peak Ales and Brampton Brewery. 

At the Real Ale Corner they have also introduced a range of locally sourced speciality cheeses, washed in real ale to create a distinctive tangy taste, and they are also planning a carry-out service for draught ales and cider.

Commented Peter Morgan: “It’s really encouraging to be working with a specialist business keen to promote local produce.”

“Michael and Richard are both entrepreneurs that have managed to turn their passion into a successful business that will also help the local brewing industry and specialist dairy producers in Derbyshire.”

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