Masham’s Black Sheep Brewery has moved to reassure customers after the business confirmed that its parent company intends to appoint administrators.
The Masham brewery - which also operates the Three Legged Mare pub in York - responded after reports surfaced suggesting Keystone Brewing Group, its parent company, had already entered administration.
The brewery said the claim was inaccurate and stressed that it continues to trade.
A spokesperson for Black Sheep Brewery said:
“Around the industry you may have seen several headlines or rumours that Keystone Brewing Group has gone into administration. Let us be clear: that is not the case.
We have filed a notice of intent to appoint an administrator, which is a protective measure that allows us to keep trading as normal while we secure new investment or explore a potential sale.
“It gives us the breathing space we need to protect our people, our brands, and our customers. We’re still brewing. We’re still delivering. We’re still here.”
The brewery also emphasised that its product range and standards remain unchanged.
A spokesperson added:
“The same beers. The same quality. The same passionate team behind every pint.”
Black Sheep, a fixture of Yorkshire’s beer scene since 1992 and known for its flagship Black Sheep Ale, was acquired last year by investment firm Breal after facing severe financial difficulties.
It now finds itself affected again as Keystone Brewing Group - which also owns Fourpure, Purity Brewing Company and the UK rights to Hofmeister - works through wider financial challenges.
Keystone employs around 190 people and is seeking to restructure or potentially sell parts of the business.
If no solution is found, administrators from FRP Advisory are expected to be appointed.
A sharp decline in sales in the weeks leading up to the Chancellor’s budget announcement on 26th November is understood to have contributed to the pressure.
Despite uncertainty at group level, Black Sheep Brewery says it remains focused on uninterrupted operations throughout the festive period.
A spokesperson for Black Sheep Brewery said:
“As we head into the festive season, our focus remains on what we do best, which is making and supplying exceptional beer, cider and brands that people love.
“To our customers, partners and supporters, we want to say: thank you for standing with us.
"Your continued loyalty means everything to our team, and we’re determined to come through this stronger than ever.”
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