Lossiemouth brewer looks for ways to keep business taps open
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SPRING was all set to be a busy period for a Lossiemouth brewer – one of many local firms forced to adapt in the virus outbreak to stop trade running dry.
Earlier this month Windswept Brewing was celebrating after picking up national awards for three of its beers.
Fast forward two weeks and the brewery says the closure of bars and restaurants, including its own Tap Room bar, has wiped out up to 90% of its business.
The next few weeks will be crucial as the brewery tries to come up with a financial package to ensure it survives the economic turmoil.
Nigel Tiddy, director and owner of Windswept Brewing, said the company's online shopping set-up had provided a lifeline. He added: "It is such a difficult and uncertain time for everyone.
"From a business point of view, there is no sector unaffected but the hospitality and tourism industry, on which we rely, has been decimated and sadly the majority of our trade customers have had to shut their doors.
"We wish them well during this time and look forward to getting our beers to them when we all come out the other side."
Mr Tiddy said, however, one shining light in all the gloom was the huge support shown by the local community. Windswept says it has seen local online orders flowing in – with many messages of support – since it launched a free home delivery service in the area.
Mr Tiddy added: "We are lucky enough to have an online shopping channel already in place to distribute our beer directly to customers.
"By starting free local deliveries, we have seen a dramatic increase in orders – thus giving the brewery a lifeline for its ongoing survival as well as providing our amazing community some cheer in what is a very sad time. We can’t thank our customers enough."
Mr Tiddy said Windswept will continue with online deliveries and potentially extend this by working with other local businesses to distribute other products too. The brewery is also looking to host live tastings as well as suggesting food pairings via social media.
Windswept clinched a gold, silver and bronze in three different categories at the recent Society of Independent Brewers awards. This was topped off with a silver for Best Overall Cask Beer.
