‘WA’s largest brewer’ targets growth

By James Atkinson

Gage Roads has eagerly taken on the mantle of Western Australia's largest brewery, with Swan Brewery set for closure early next year.

In a presentation at the company's annual general meeting last week, Gage Roads managing director John Hoedemaker said the brewer was in a good position to capitalise on the closure of Swan.

"With the demise of Swan Brewery, the banner of largest WA brewery passes to Gage Roads," he said.

"With our increased capacity and lower cost structure, Gage Roads is planning to increase its draught beer presence in WA."

Hoedemaker reiterated that Gage Roads' revenue was up 25 per cent to $19.7 million last financial year, boosted by its strategy of brewing private label beer for part-owner Woolworths.

He said the partnership was poised to deliver further growth through the national launch of the Sail & Anchor craft beer range and the launch of limited release 640ml products designed to take advantage of seasonal retail selling opportunities.

"The booming growth of the craft market, our new flexible brewing equipment, our passion for and tradition in craft beer, and our competitive cost structure means Gage Roads is perfectly placed and is targeting to partner new and existing craft brands wishing to expand into bottled and draught products," Hoedemaker said. 

Meanwhile, Gage Roads had a big night at the Perth Royal Beer Awards on Friday, winning three Gold medals, a Bronze and one Trophy – Best Ale Packaged for its Sleeping Giant IPA. 

Gage Roads general manager of operations, Aaron Heary (pictured), said the accolades are particularly impressive given the brewer's rapid growth in recent times.

"It takes some pretty serious team discipline to maintain your focus on quality when things are constantly changing," he said.