The undisclosed funds will allow the brewer to further expand capacity, open more sites and create more jobs at its headquarters in Holbeck, Leeds.
The Active Partners deal follows a number of approaches from big beer acquirers and investment firms that Northern had turned down in the past.
Northern Monk founder and managing director Russell Bisset said the brewery historically said no to potential investors because they didn’t share the company’s values and vision for the future.
‘The synergy was just right’
“However, when we were approached by Active Partners, we felt the synergy was just right,” he explained. “We’ve been working with Active Partners for some time, in order for us to properly understand their business and for them to understand ours.
“They are deeply involved in the companies they support and make long-term investments into truly authentic and visionary brands. We are all very excited about this next significant phase in our development.”
Northern also hoped to use Active Partners’ experience to help them become B-Corp accredited – Active has worked with another of its partners, clothing firm Finisterre, to achieve the same goal.
Law firm 3volution
Northern secured the investment with the help of law firm 3volution, which negotiated the deal. 3volution partner Amy Wright said: “This latest investment shows just how powerful their brand [Northern Monk] is becoming. They really are a force to be reckoned with.”
Founded in 2013, Northern Monk now exports to 23 countries worldwide and has 60 employees across its brewery and refectory sites.
Last year, the brewer smashed its £500,000 crowdfunding target, raising more than £823,000 of investment in less than a week.
Meanwhile, Cornwall-based brewery start-up Jubel has received investment from Magners owner C&C Group to help drive distribution of its craft beers.