EDINBURGH craft beer subscription firm Beer52 has succeeded in meeting an exceptional increase in demand thanks to funding support from Royal Bank of Scotland.
Founded in 2013, by James Brown and Fraser Doherty, Beer52 sources and delivers a package of eight new craft beers to subscribers each month.
During lockdown, an unprecedented surge in customer demand resulted in a landmark 200,000 subscribers and the company has since doubled in size, with more than 30 new staff members recruited.
However, the financial uncertainties faced by many throughout the COVID-19 pandemic meant that Beer52 suppliers were forced to update credit terms, requiring an up-front payment for stock.
Funding from Royal Bank of Scotland was essential in ensuring the business could continue to operate.
James and Fraser were not able to access CBILS support, however, the team at Royal Bank of Scotland recognised the potential of their business and pledged additional funding in the form of a substantial overdraft.
James said: “The support from Royal Bank of Scotland really has been exceptional.
“The best thing about it is that we’ve been able to play our part in keeping the supply chain moving. Some breweries restarted production just for us. We couldn’t have done it without the funding, and without the thousands of new customers we’ve welcomed in recent weeks.”
Stuart Kenny, Royal Bank of Scotland senior relationship manager, said: “It’s great to see that Beer52 is busier than ever.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what they can tap into next.”
