Increasing Demand Prompts Saint Arnold Brewing To Invest In Greater Capacity
Oldest Microbrewery in Texas on Pace for Record Year; Readies for Bigger Future
HOUSTON, July 7, 2005 - Saint Arnold Brewing Company, the oldest microbrewery in Texas, is taking steps to ensure that thirsty Texans don’t find empty shelves when looking for Saint Arnold beer. Following a record year in 2004 and a record breaking first half of 2005, Saint Arnold Brewing Company is adding equipment and personnel to increase capacity by one third.
The six-figure investment will include a new bright beer tank, extra refrigeration and a pair of new fermenters. Each of the fermenters will be twice the size of the Houston brewery’s existing fermenters. Meanwhile, the brewery’s staff has nearly doubled over the past year as they race to keep up with demand for Saint Arnold Brewing’s tasty beers.
“Craft beer’s popularity is continuing to grow throughout Texas,” said Saint Arnold founder Brock Wagner. “This investment will increase capacity to more than 300 barrels per week, which will ensure that our products are always available when Texans want a fresh, flavorful, quality beer.”
Last year, Saint Arnold Brewing reported an increase of 27 percent, which far outpaced the national craft brewing average of seven percent. Wagner projects production will approach 12,000 31-gallon barrels in 2005, which is the brewery’s full capacity. The investment in new equipment will boost capacity to 16,000 barrels per year.
In the midst of its rapid growth, Saint Arnold Brewing continues its unique traditions that touch lives throughout Texas in a personal way. For instance, Wagner recently presented a check to Galveston Historical Foundation to help maintain the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA, which is the namesake of Saint Arnold Elissa IPA. A portion of proceeds from the beer’s sales are earmarked for preservation of the ship.
About Saint Arnold Brewing Company
Saint Arnold Brewing’s ten brews are made and sold by the company''s staff of 15 dedicated employees. The brewery is located at 2522 Fairway Park Drive and its free brewery tour and tasting is offered every Saturday at 1:00 P.M. For more information on Saint Arnold''s five year-round and five seasonal beers as well as root beer, log on to http://www.saintarnold.com.