Business Breakfast: Theakston Old Peculier returns to the US after ten-year gap

Newsroom

Last updated Nov 14, 2023

Simon Theakston.

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Masham-based brewer T&R Theakston is to make its Old Peculier ale available in the United States for the first time in ten years.

The ale has a strong following in the US after first being shipped there in 1976, and at one point was the third most imported British beer, with around 40 pallets exported every month. But the company stopped shipping to the States in 2013 due to the massive growth of foreign imported beers and the domestic craft scene.

Simon Theakston, joint managing director of T&R Theakston, said:

“With the market now settling down and the tried-and-tested imported beer brands coming once again to the fore, now is exactly the right time to return to a much admired and very enthusiastic consumer market once again.”

Believed to have been first brewed in the early 19th century, Theakston Old Peculier is the most recognisable brand of the family-run company which has been brewing in Masham for almost 200 years.

The brewery is working with New York importer and wholesaler Iron Horse Beverages to reintroduce Old Peculier to the US market with a view to expanding its footprint in the coming years. Exports are to restart this month when the first consignment of kegs, 440ml cans and bottles arrive in New York State to be distributed throughout the Eastern Seaboard.

Mr Theakston added:

“We are looking forward to reconnecting with loyal Old Peculier fans throughout the US, whilst introducing our rich brewing heritage to a new audience of ale lovers.”

New finance director at Northern

Train operator Northern has appointed Richard Hinds as its finance director.

A former CFO of global tech distributor Exertis, Mr Hinds has also held senior roles with Flogas Britain Plc and Speedy Hire Plc. In his new role, he will oversee a broad range of corporate services.

Northern, the UK’s second largest train operator, runs Harrogate and Knaresborough stations and provides local passenger train services.

Mr Hinds said:

“I’m looking forward to working with the team at Northern and contributing to our vision to make a positive impact for the North, getting our customers where they need to be, safely, affordably and on time.”