There’s been a big boom in Adelaide’s craft brewery scene, with Little Bang bought up by the aspirational Duxton Pubs Group.
One of Adelaide’s first local brewers, Little Bang Brewing Co has been acquired by South Australia’s fast-growing and ambitious pubs group.
In 2013 business partners Ryan Davidson and Fil Kemp established the brand as a side project in Kemp’s garage, before moving to a small warehouse and finally the Stepney-based brewery and tap room, in 2018.
Duxton Pubs co-founder Ed Peter says this new deal gives Little Bang the opportunity to increase distribution across their network and beyond, with possibilities to expand the brand interstate.
“It means the Little Bang team can grow through our reach in the hospitality space while continuing to brew the amazing beers they are known for.”
“We’re super excited to work with them on growing the Little Bang brand – which will still continue to be available in existing hotels and bottle shops, as well as a host of new ones both within South Australia and nationally.”
The sale came after a difficult year of deliberation, Kemp and Davidson ultimately deciding to deal with Duxton due to their progressive attitude and connections in the industry.
As part of the deal, Davidson will remain with the brand in an executive role, while Kemp takes on an advisory position. Both will receive shares in Duxton Pubs Group. They will be joined by former Uraidla Brewery head brewer Oscar Matthews.
Duxton currently operates 17 venues across South Australia, which gives it scope to develop the Little Bang brand. The group was formed in 2020 with purchase of The Lion in North Adelaide, and now surpassing a dozen venues, it cites plans to ultimately become a Top 3 pub owner in Australia.
In the meantime, Little Bang currently makes around 400,000 litres annually. It will remain in Stepney doing what it does best, with growth plans yet to be announced.
Unlike other small breweries, who are typically faced with the choice of either puttering along or be tempted to sell to large multinationals, Little Bang sees the Duxton deal as the best of both worlds.
Founder Ryan Davidson says they have found a “perfect alternative” with Duxton.
“It’s going to be huge.”
