The new outlet builds on the rollout of the successful Brewery Taproom concept launched by Innis & Gunn last year which aims to give consumers the best possible experience of the brand and its beers. Expanding its retail estate is a key pillar of the company’s growth strategy.

The brewer anticipates 12 jobs will be created, bringing the total number of employees across the retail business to around 90. The brand has now brought 75% of retail staff back from furlough with no job losses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff have been fully trained with robust physical distancing measures in place.

The bar joins three other Taprooms across Glasgow, Dundee, and Edinburgh city-centre. Guests can expect a selection of great beers, buzzing atmosphere and brand-new food menu served up in the scenic setting of The Shore. The new bar features a large outdoor area to the front, with a charming seated area and plenty of parasols for shelter.

Dougal Gunn Sharp, founder and CEO at Innis & Gunn, said: “We’re feeling incredibly fortunate to be able to continue with our growth plans during this difficult and uncertain time. In the past few months our team have excelled. The business is in great shape and, now that the hospitality sector is starting to open up again, we are looking to the future so that means progressing with our planned retail expansion.

“Our year-to-date performance has demonstrated the resilience and relevance of our brand. Our UK off trade value has grown 63% YOY from April to June. Our lager sales were up 74% YOY for June and our online shop sales rose 1,100% helped by the launch of our quick and cold delivery service which is just incredible.

“We ran a number of successful marketing initiatives during lockdown which included our first ever TV advertising campaign for ‘Remember Pints?’ which also saw us support the re-opening of the hospitality sector with free kegs of beer. We also launched our partnership with charity Meals & More to combat holiday hunger and supported out of work creatives with Innis & Gunn x The Originals, so it’s been an exciting time for us.”

He added: “We are also pleased to be able to create jobs at a time of such uncertainly for many. We look forward to welcoming the first customers through the door from Friday. We are also committed to supporting our on-trade partners as they re-open and get back on their feet.”

The Innis & Gunn Brewery Taproom, Leith, will be open at 58 The Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RB from Friday 21st August at 15.00.