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Enterprising brewer returns to Sunderland to inspire entrepreneurs

The founder of a Lake District brewery, who studied brewing in Sunderland, has returned to the region to tell the story of how he went from news correspondent to entrepreneur.

Speaking to members of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum at a special event, held at Teesside University’s Darlington Campus, Alex Brodie addressed a gathering of more than 40 entrepreneurs.

In 2002, after more than 30 years in journalism, and with zero business experience, former BBC foreign correspondent Alex Brodie decided to follow his passion for beer and invested £40,000 into starting up Hawkshead Brewery in South Lakeland.

When embarking on his new career, Mr Brodie studied at a BrewLab course at Sunderland University.

He now employs 20 people, has a turnover of £2.5m and has moved from the barn, in which he started the brewery, into stylish premises, including a beer hall and acclaimed restaurant, in Staveley, near Kendall.

Prior to leading a sampling session of the brewery’s ales, Mr Brodie told the audience about some of the lessons he had learned in establishing and running the business.

He said: “I’m in favour of consultants, so long as they are top notch. The one piece of advice I offer prospective brewers is, know what you don’t know and buy it in. It’s important because there is a skills shortage in the brewing industry. Too many small brewers think it’s easy and they can get by, and it shows.

“Everyone was low paid at the start, but they knew that their pay would rise as we grew, and it has. They are on board and we all have fun and I don’t just mean the beer allowance at the end of the day.”

Nigel Mills, chairman of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: “It was a brilliant presentation. This is an unbelievable example of how you can follow your passion and create a fabulous business.”

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