AN east coast entrepreneur is looking to increase production capacity at what she claims is Scotland’s first dedicated alcohol-free brewery.
Sonja Mitchell launched Jump Ship Brewing earlier this year. In late September she launched a crowdfunding campaign through RBS to help increase production of her first alcohol-free beer and introduce additional products. RBS has signed on to match a portion of the funding and Mitchell said several Edinburgh bars and independent retailers are lined up as stockists.
In addition to being alcohol-free the first beer is also vegan and gluten-free, and Mitchell is taking steps to ensure there is a minimal environmental impact, such as using lighter cans which are easier to recycle and lighter to transport and brewing on energy-efficient kit.
With just over a week to go until closing the crowdfunding campaign had already raised more than £14,000 of its £17,500 target, with a number of different funding options open to investors, ranging from invites to the company’s launch party in exchange for a £15 donation, up to a private dining experience for £1500.
“I’ve always loved beer and dreamed of running a brewery,” said Mitchell.
“There’s a huge trend towards people – myself included – drinking less alcohol but I didn’t want to miss out on the taste of a good beer. For years, the alcohol-free choices on offer have been pretty dismal and while it’s starting to improve, there’s still a long way to go.
“People are used to great beers with big personalities, and they shouldn’t have to compromise on that just because they are looking to cut back on alcohol.”
