Bank to be new craft ale pub
A FORMER branch of Lloyds Bank on Colmore Row is to become a new pub run by one of the country’s largest independent craft brewers.
Thornbridge Brewery is hoping to open the new bar before the summer.
It will not brew beers on the premises but bring the ales down from its Peak District base in Bakewell.
The company is best known for its American-style IPA Jaipur which has won more than 100 awards worldwide and is claimed to have a “six dimensional hop experience”.
The bar will be round the corner from two other renowned alehouses – The Wellington, in Bennetts Hill, and Purecraft Bar & Kitchen, in Waterloo Street, while other significant local food and drink businesses include Nosh & Quaff, Pieminister and the Michelin-starred Aadam’s Restaurant.
Thornbridge’s export manager James Buchanan said: “I wish we could have come to Birmingham sooner – we always have a great time at the Birmingham Beer Bash.”
The site will be a joint venture with Yorkbased craft beer wholesaler Pivovar UK, with the two companies looking to create ten new nationwide sites over the next five years.
Thornbridge Brewery chief executive Simon Webster said: “We could not be more excited to announce this partnership, having worked with Pivovar for many years we know they are a fantastic company who share our core values.
“We have a real passion for pubs and want to introduce our beers to a wider market.
“This gives us the opportunity to work towards ensuring our beer is present in every corner of the country!”
Pivovar owner Jamie Hawksworth added: “Over the last 12 years we have created awardwinning bars supported by our own drinks wholesale division which delivers a supply chain within our estate.
“We are now thrilled to be joining forces with our friends at Thornbridge to roll out more amazing bars offering access to their beer range alongside our existing drinks portfolio.”