Kent’s ‘first’ microdistillery launches crowdfunding bid

Anno Distilllers, Kent’s ‘first’ microdistillery, is seeking to raise £750,000 (US$989k) through a crowdfunding campaign to expand its business.

Anno Distillers is seeking £750,000 to expand its business

The money raised from the investment will go towards appointing a sales team, a PR agent, a financial controller, an operations manager and additional technical staff.

The investment will also allow for more spend on marketing and advertising, as well as international expansion from 2018 and the installation of a bottling line in 2019 and an additional still in 2020.

Anno Distillers was founded in 2011 by Dr Andy Reason and Dr Norman Lewis, both PhD research and development chemists.

Anno’s spirits range includes Anno Kent Dry Gin, over-proof gin Anno 60², a sloe gin, Elderflower and Vodka Spirit Drink and Cranberry and Gin Spirit Drink.

To date the majority of both financial and human resource has been directed toward product development.

“When Andy and I first spoke of setting up a distillery, we never could have imagined it would be as successful as it is today,” said Lewis.

“We wouldn’t be enjoying the success we are without the enthusiasm and support of customers who have discovered, shared and enjoyed our products so it makes perfect sense that we invite them to be a part of growing Anno Distillers.”

The company said it has achieved 45% growth in turnover year-on-year for the past three years.

Anno Distillers will launch the crowdfunding platform on Seedrs. Investments can be as little as £100 with various levels receiving different investor perks such as product discounts and free tours of the distillery.

The campaign will officially end on 4 January or when the full target is achieved.