THE founders of the UK’s first light craft lager are celebrating the second anniversary of its launch with investment from two drinks industry heavy hitters.
Genius Brewing, founded by Jason Clarke and Charlie Craig, has received a significant investment from fellow Scots; former Molson Coors global chief executive Mark Hunter; and David Wither, founder and chairman of the Montpelier Group.
The Glasgow based brand which launched its Gen!us Craft Lager in April 2018, is continuing to grow thanks to the rising trend in healthier drinking, which saw UK sales of ‘No & Low’ alcohol beer grow £15.2million in 2019.*
Charlie Craig, co-founder and operations director of Genius Brewing, said: “Securing investment from two of Scotland’s most respected figures within the drinks industry is a huge vote of confidence and a great way to celebrate a successful first two years.
“The Gen!us mission is to make healthier drinking a pleasure, not a compromise. Both Mark and David recognise that today’s consumers want a great beer that’s part of a healthy lifestyle.
“Of course like every drinks brand, coronavirus, has hit our on-trade business, however we’ve quickly adapted to focus on our online channel Flavourly.com where sales are rocketing.”
Mark, who recently retired as President and CEO after 30 years at Bass and Molson Coors, said: “There’s a lot of great work happening in the No & Low alcohol space and Genius Brewing is a brand that is paying attention to the evolving lifestyle changes of drinkers all over the world. Its light craft lager delivers on taste and allows drinkers to enjoy one of life’s pleasures without compromise.”
Montpelier Group’s iconic Edinburgh venues include Tigerlily and Indigo Yard. Founder David Wither said: “I’ve seen huge changes in the beer industry since we started in the 90’s. Craft beer has raised people’s expectations of flavour but not everyone wants their strong ABVs and calorie content. I can see huge potential for Gen!us, especially when it launches in draft.”
Gen!us is available in smart wine shops, bars and restaurants and hotels across Scotland and the UK and is also available online at Flavourly.
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