Aspiring brewers, hop to it - Johnston Carmichael is backing a major new UK accelerator programme for brewery start-ups!

The event is part of BrewLDN, a new beer festival taking place at The Old Truman Brewery in Londong, from 27-29 February. Over the course of the festival, three aspiring breweries will battle it out for a year of mentoring and guidance, valued at £50,000.

Johnston Carmichael, which counts hundreds of food and drinks businesses amongst its client base, is among the firms who will supply the winner with expert advice.

The three finalists will be assessed on their performance at the three-day BrewLDN event. Judges will also be looking at their business plan, brand and sales strategy.

Adam Hardie, Head of Food and Drink at Johnston Carmichael, who will help to judge the accelerator scheme, said: “From Cornwall to Caithness, craft brewing is flourishing across the UK. But with an increasing number of brewers entering the sector every year, the competition is greater than ever for start-ups.

“The BrewLDN Accelerator programme will help aspiring brewers to get a foothold in the crowded market-place and put them on the road to success.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the finalists and as a craft beer fan, will make the most of the opportunity to sample their wares.”

Last year Johnston Carmichael partnered with the Brewers Association of Scotland and law firm TLT LLP to launch a free hotline for brewers seeking advice on licensing and tax issues.

Brewers who are interested in accessing the hotline should email brewing@jcca.co.uk or call directly on 0808 1410013. The JC helpline will operate between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday (excluding statutory holidays) and TBAS members are entitled to 30 minutes free advice.