Couple builds successful brewery from humble garage beginnings

In the UK, Luci and Mike met at Lancaster University in 2006 and later married in 2015. During their honeymoon in Seychelles, they decided to start a brewery together. They registered their business after returning, named Double-Barrelled Brewery after their surname, and began brewing beer in their garage with a small commercial kit, initially producing 100 liters at a time. They focused on kettle sours and imperial stouts, quickly gaining traction in the niche market. Their standout beers helped attract attention from major retailers. By 2018, the couple had outgrown their garage space and moved to a 6,400 sqft warehouse in Reading, Berkshire, investing in a 3,000-litre brewhouse to increase their production capacity. This allowed them to make 3,000 liters of beer at a time, leading to the creation of their best-seller pale ale, Parka. Their beers are now widely distributed in the UK, with significant partnerships established with retailers such as Waitrose, John Lewis, and Tesco. The couple credits their success to the passionate community within the beer industry and the pride they take in their work. With a production volume of about 1.3 million pints annually, they remain committed to continuous improvement. Their mantra reflects a desire for creative experimentation, and they enjoy experimenting with unique flavors like rhubarb and custard. While they acknowledge the challenges of running a business together, they express gratitude for the bonding experience it has created in their relationship. Unlike traditional couples who maintain separate jobs, Luci and Mike cherish the time spent together in their brewery, finding joy and fulfillment in their entrepreneurial journey.