Alva pint: Bank backing Harviestoun’s expansion plans

The Alva-based maker of Bitter & Twisted, Old Engine Oil and Schiehallion will recruit six workers next year to take its headcount to 25, having grown staffing levels by 30 per cent this year.

Harviestoun used a six-figure sum from Clydesdale to build an 11,000sq ft warehouse and office.

Since managing director Chris Miller bought the brewery from Caledonian Brewing Company in 2008, exports have grown from 2 per cent of sales to 20 per cent, targeting 21 countries including Brazil and regions such as North America and Scandinavia.

Miller aims to double sales to £6 million in the next three years and is launching a range of 330ml bottles to complement his existing 500ml offering, including a new Atlantic pale ale in the American craft brewing style.

The Arran, Cairngorm, Stewart and West breweries have all unveiled expansion plans as drinkers continue to crave craft ales.

PETER RANSCOMBE