Ryan Crisp has joined Woodforde’s from a similar role at St Peter’s Brewery in Suffolk. He would spearhead the company’s global expansion plans into key international territories, including the US, Canada, Russia and Scandinavia in the next 12 months, the company said.
At St Peter’s, Crisp was responsible for sales development in more than 40 countries worldwide. That followed the launch of new ranges in Canada, new products into the US and Russia and agreements with customers in China, Germany and India.
Number of new hires
His appointment was one of several significant new hires for the brewer in recent months. It had added to the marketing, commercial and sales teams to help grow the business and hired more technical roles in the brewery to help continue new product development.
Commercial and marketing director James Armitage said the appointments would help build on Woodforde’s heritage and help it gain a foothold in new markets.
“In addition to making important new hires, Woodforde’s is also upgrading its facilities,” he added. “This year, Woodforde’s will also invest £1m in new canning and bottling facilities to ensure all of its beers can be packaged on site.
Self sufficient
“This major development will ensure the brewery becomes completely self-sufficient, as well as providing a local bottling and canning facility for other breweries across East Anglia.”
Armitage also announced that the brewery’s partnership with Norwich City Football Club would see its Wherry and Norada beers will be available at the team’s home grounds at Carrow Road.
Meanwhile, independent brewer Northern Monk has won investment from private equity firm Active Partners for a 25% stake in the company.