Online beer distributor completes move to Wetherby’s Thorp Arch Estate

Beer Hawk, the online beer distributor, has completed its expansion to Thorp Arch Estate in Wetherby.

Beer Hawk, which delivers a selection of over 800 beers to homes throughout the UK, has moved from Saltergate Business Park, Harrogate, to a 14,161 sq ft Unit at Ash Way II.

Ashy Way is part of a 37,276 sq ft speculative scheme started this spring, on a 15-year lease.

The fitting out by Beer Hawk, which has seen turnover rise from £150k three years ago to a projected £10m this year, has included the installation of a tasting room so customers can sample its selection of beers.

Additional work carried out by Thorp Arch Estate owner, Rockspring Hanover Property Unit Trust, and overseen by Wharfedale Property Management, includes the installation of 2,000 sq ft of additional office space.

Solicitors for Thorp Arch Estate have also completed the letting of a further 3,041 sq ft in the adjoining Unit 9 Ash Way to Beer Hawk, the last remaining space in the scheme.

Beer Hawk also plans to acquire a further 12,000 sq ft from autumn 2017.

Established in 2012 by founders and directors, Chris France and Mark Roberts, Beer Hawk sources its beers from 25 different countries, including those from several micro craft breweries in Yorkshire, and provide next-day delivery to homes and trade customers throughout the UK.

The company, which has grown from two to 30 permanent staff plus a further 10 seasonal workers in the run up to Christmas, aims to invest millions of pounds into its operation in the next few years, creating 30 new jobs and further expanding its selection of beers.

Chris France said: “The additional warehousing and office space at Thorp Arch Estate is badly needed as we continue to expand rapidly to meet national demand for our selection of the world’s best beers from retailers, bar and pub owners, as well as consumers throughout the UK.

“The estate’s proximity to the motorway network is ideal for our commitment to next-day deliveries. The estate management has been very accommodating in meeting our needs and we plan to expand further here next year.”

The two-million sq ft Thorp Arch Estate is base for a diverse range of more than 160 businesses, from start-ups to large plcs, operating in local, national and international markets and employing around 2,000 people.