Deeds Brewing enters into liquidation following unsuccessful search for buyer

Melbourne-based Deeds Brewing announced yesterday that it will be permanently ceasing to operate. The decision, made eight weeks after the group was entered into voluntary administration, will affect all four registered companies owned by the Deeds Group, including its Glen Iris Taproom and Future Proof Distilling brand.

“We have made the difficult decision to wind up our business,” said Deeds in a statement published to social media.

“We’ll deeply miss our dedicated staff, who have become like family to us, and our incredible fans who’ve stood by us through thick and thin throughout the years.”

Deeds entered into voluntary administration on 13 March under Deloitte administrators Glen Kanevsky and David Orr. Over the past eight weeks, the Financial Advisors were unable to find a suitable solution to assist in helping Deeds Brewing surpass its currently strained economic position. 

“Since going into Voluntary Administration 8 weeks ago, we have been searching for a buyer or investor, hoping to keep the spirit of Deeds Brewing alive, but unfortunately, this hasn’t come to fruition,” read the statement.

Deeds, which has ceased production, will continue to sell and distribute as normal until it has run through existing stock. 

“To our wholesale customers, we will be supplying you during this period as we deplete our inventory, so please reach out to your designated rep or give us a call,” read the statement.

“To our Deeds community, any orders that have been placed via our online store will be fulfilled... We will be running a 30% discount off everything both online and through our Deeds Taproom on all our beers in the coming days. This will be your last chance to stock up on our beers and raise a final glass to Deeds Brewing.”

Deeds is one of more than a dozen independent Australian breweries to enter into voluntary administration over the past 18 months, including at least eight since January, with the main common thread being outstanding debts owed to the ATO. This recent Drinks Trade interview with Kylie Lethbridge, CEO at the Independent Brewers Association, provides greater insight into the nature and extent of this problem. 

It is worth noting that it is not only independent breweries that are being impacted by the current unstable trading conditions. Just last week, Asahi Beverages announced the immediate closure of its Matilda Bay brewpub less than five years after the brand was revived.

Deeds Brewing, originally Quiet Deeds, was founded in 2012 by two ex-engineers with experience in beer distribution. Since then, Deeds has developed a reputation for producing some of Australia’s best craft beers, receiving significant accolades at last year’s Australian International Beer Awards such as Best Specialty Flavoured Beer for its BBA Peanut Butter Imperial Stout and Best Specialty Beer for Ruminations. It was also awarded the title of Champion Victorian Brewery and Champion Medium Australian Brewery.

“Over the last 12 years, we’ve poured our hearts into every brew, every interaction, and every moment shared with you… our hearts are broken,” read Deeds' statement.

“Since launching Deeds Brewing in 2012, our mission has always been about passion and people. We want to thank you for all the love and support you have shown us. 

“In these tough times for businesses and individuals alike, we extend our best wishes to everyone in the industry. Now more than ever, it’s crucial to support local businesses.”