Export deal for start up craft brewer in Belfast
KnockOut, a start up craft brewer in Belfast, has signed a deal to supply its initial range of two beers in the Republic of Ireland.
The contract with Barry and Fitzwilliam, the Cork-based distributor, could double the brewer's sales.
KnockOut Brewing was launched in February and in its first 30 days sold 80 per cent of its initial supply.
Owned by Joseph McMullan, KnockOut is currently stocked by bars and off-licences locally and distributed in Northern Ireland by Ballycastle's Anzac Wines & Spirits. He sees the contract in the Republic as a "huge step forward" for the business and "a massive endorsement of the taste and quality of its beers".
Ireland is "just the first stepping stone" in KnockOut's plan for expansion, with additional growth into the European and American markets in the sights for the coming year.
He chose the Knockout as the company identity and brand to reflect the city's boxing traditions showcased by champions such as Barry McGuigan and Carl Frampton.
McMullan initially started in the business by discovering a passion for it via a home brewing hobby.
"Getting my start in home brewing, I became interested in making unique brews using high quality ingredients, which soon gained popularity among my friends and family," he said.
"I realised that this could be more than a hobby, and began work on KnockOut Brewing in November 2013.
"Installation of the brew house was complete in August 2014, and I soon began to brew my first batches of KnockOut.
"It's been a lengthy process from installation and licensing to brewing my first batch and refining the flavours from there, but I am very proud of the premium quality beers Knockout is producing."
KnockOut has developed two beers and is working on a third. The existing beers are a Middleweight IPA (ABV 4.5%) and an IPA Red Ale (ABV 4.5%). The IPA has a light citrus taste from its New Zealand and Slovenian hops, while the Red Ale has a caramel aroma from American hops. The third beer will be an American Pale Ale. The small brewery has a 2,000 litre capacity.