Amity Brew Co celebrated a year of growth after moving its brewing operation to a new 30,000‑square‑foot facility, a transition facilitated by the Yorkshire law firm John Howe & Co.
Legal guidance helped secure a larger production site
John Howe & Co, based in Pudsey, advised the brewery on the lease of the Albion Mills premises. The agreement let Amity separate its brewing and hospitality functions, creating space for higher output. The firm handled both lease contracts, supporting the business as it evolved from a start‑up into a regional player.
Russ Clarke, co‑founder of the brewery, said, “We’re incredibly excited to be up and running at Greengates. The new site is a significant step in our journey and John Howe & Co has been with us the whole way.” He recalled that during the pandemic the company was “delivering beer by hand… learning as we went.”
Production doubled and new markets opened
Since the relocation last year, Amity has doubled its output. Regular shipments now reach customers in Finland and Italy, expanding the brand’s export footprint. The original Sunny Bank Mills location has been repurposed as a taproom and kitchen, serving food and drink six days a week for up to 200 patrons.
Jenna Howe, a solicitor at the law firm, added, “We were fans of Amity long before we became their lawyers, so being able to support the team as they take this next step has been hugely rewarding.” She highlighted the firm’s focus on “supporting ambitious local businesses at key moments in their development.”
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The brewery’s new facility is fully operational, and management aims to increase production while enhancing the hospitality experience at its Farsley base.
In a cautious view, the expansion could position Amity to negotiate broader distribution agreements, especially in the EU market where demand for craft beers remains robust. Maintaining quality while scaling will be essential; any slip could affect the brand’s reputation built during its early, hands‑on days.
Amity’s growth story reflects a broader trend of independent breweries seeking larger premises to meet rising consumer interest. Legal expertise often proves key in handling lease terms and ensuring regulatory compliance.
John Howe & Co’s involvement began before any formal agreement, as members of the firm’s team were among Amity’s early customers during the pandemic. That pre‑existing relationship appears to have smoothed negotiations and supported trust throughout the process.
With the expanded brewing capacity now in place, the brewery plans to continue developing its hospitality offerings, leveraging the dedicated taproom to deepen community ties.