Grant just the tonic for Burnley gin distillery

Batch Brew is set to increase production and distribution of their internationally recognised Batch Premium Gin after a grant from Lancashire Business Growth Fund proved to be just the tonic.

The family-run firm has been awarded £10,196 which, alongside its own capital investment, has led to the purchase, installation and commissioning of a purpose built distillery facility at its Burnley premises, which includes a new tanking system, distillery equipment and metal counters.

It is the second Burnley business to benefit from the £8m. growth fund pot, which was recently launched to help businesses across Lancashire with business growth project.

Director Phil Whitwell said: “I approached Burnley Council’s business support team to seek advice on funding for our business growth and they pointed me in the direction of the Lancashire Business Growth Fund.

“The fund was really easy to apply to. You make an initial application online, and the process and criteria is very clearly explained. Our application was processed in six weeks from our initial enquiry to receiving our grant offer letter.”

He added: “Since moving from Winchester to Burnley we have been overwhelmed by the support from the council and local business support agencies. Moving to Lancashire was definitely the right decision and the LBGF fund has been a fantastic welcome in assisting the growth of our thriving gin business.

“We believe ourselves to be as true a definition of a family-run distillery as there is. Our premium gin is lovingly crafted. We don’t ask anyone else to produce our drinks and we source everything, from the bottles, to the botanicals and everything in-between.

“We produce and bottle by hand to ensure quality and individuality, which the team are immensely proud of.”

Phil and his team at Batch Brew will be showcasing Batch at the Burnley Gin Festival, which takes place at the Burnley Mechanics on September 19th.