Alice Springs Brewing Co. has announced its expansion into South Australia, with the Northern Territory-based brewery acquiring Beer Garden Brewing in Port Lincoln.
Kyle Pearson, co-owner of Alice Springs Brewing, told The Crafty Pint that the decision to purchase the Port Lincoln brewery follows a long-standing desire to expand, initially with a focus on Darwin. However, Pearson explained that Port Lincoln’s unique advantages—especially the seasonal variation in its tourism flow—made it an appealing choice.
“Port Lincoln is an amazing spot,” Pearson said. “I’m looking forward to splitting my time between Alice Springs and Port Lincoln. The timing of the two regions’ peak seasons offers a great opportunity for us to support each other operationally. When one brewery is busy, the other will be quieter, allowing us to balance capacity.”
Port Lincoln’s peak tourist season aligns with the Australian summer, which contrasts with Alice Springs’ peak season in the middle of the year, providing a strategic advantage for the expansion.
The acquisition, which will take effect in early December, will see Alice Springs Brewing maintain much of Beer Garden Brewing’s existing operations. Pearson emphasized that the brewery plans to keep the Beer Garden name and retain the current staff.
“We’re not looking to make significant changes for the foreseeable future,” Pearson explained. “The Beer Garden brand and the team have a strong reputation, and we’re excited to continue building on that.”
Beer Garden Brewing, founded in 2016, has been up for sale for several years. The brewery’s 10-hectolitre brewhouse offers a production capacity similar to Alice Springs Brewing’s 12-hectolitre system, making it a good fit for the expanding brewery. Pearson praised the work that has already been done in developing both the venue and the brewery equipment.
“There’s been significant investment in both the hospitality side and the brewing facilities,” he said. “We’re not looking to undo any of the good work that’s been done here.”
While the Australian beer industry has faced challenges in recent years, Pearson is optimistic about the potential of regional breweries. With a background in hospitality, he believes a strong focus on customer experience has contributed to Alice Springs Brewing’s success and will continue to be crucial in Port Lincoln.
“Regional breweries have really found their niche in recent times,” Pearson remarked. “A strong hospitality offering can make all the difference.”
Despite the challenges facing the wider beer industry, Pearson sees great potential for the Port Lincoln operation. The coastal town, located several hundred kilometers west of Adelaide, offers opportunities for growth, especially given the region’s robust tourism trade.
And as for Pearson, the new role offers personal perks as well. “Plus, I get to hang out by the beach,” he said with a laugh. “Water you can swim in that isn’t full of crocodiles.”
The acquisition marks a significant milestone for Alice Springs Brewing as it continues to expand its presence beyond the Northern Territory and into new markets.
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