Diageo has revealed plans to invest £73m in ‘Guinness at Old Brewer’s Yard’, a new microbrewery and culture hub in Covent Garden, London, set to open in Autumn 2023.
The project, called Guinness at Old Brewer’s Yard, follows the success of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and the opening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh last year.
Diageo stated that the move demonstrates its confidence in London and the UK as a go-to destination for tourists and its commitment to the hospitality sector. Guinness sales in Britain have grown by over 30% in the last six months and 1 in every 10 pints sold in London is now a Guinness.
The new 50,000 sq. ft. venue is expected to create up to 150 jobs and provide a community space within the Covent Garden area. The facility will include a microbrewery, events space, shop, bar and restaurant.
The site will also become the Southern UK hub of Diageo’s Learning for Life Bartending and Hospitality Programme that aims to create employment opportunities in the industry.
Dayalan Nayager, Managing Director of Diageo Great Britain, said: “We’re excited to create a new home for Guinness in the heart of London. ‘Guinness at Old Brewer’s Yard’ will strengthen London’s hospitality community and be a must-visit destination for thousands of visitors to enjoy.”
He added: “Government support over the last two years has been vital for pubs and bars. Coming out of the pandemic, the long-term vitality of the trade will be significantly helped by the alcohol duty review and continued freezes in duty.”
