Sussex brewer, Dark Star, took the next step on its journey when it officially opened the doors on its new brewery in Partridge Green, West Sussex.

The move, which was forced upon the brewery after years of demand out-stripping supply, will  see production capacity rise by 300%.

The new 16,000 sq ft site, some 11 miles west of the previous brewery near Haywards Heath, is the brewer’s third new site in 8 years. Having started life in the cellar of the Evening Star pub in Brighton back in 1996 each move has facilitated essential growth in the multi-award winning Dark Star business.  

Speaking at the event, Paul Reed, managing director at the Sussex brewer said: “This is the biggest investment we’ve made to date and despite the current economic climate it reflects our confidence in the long term development of the real ale market. Our confidence is also boosted by the broad spectrum of people that are discovering real ale from across age and social groups.”

Paul added: “We’ve built the business on a passion for quality, authenticity and variety and we’re delighted that our drinkers share those same values.”

The brewery was officially opened by Roger Protz, editor of the Good Beer Guide