This morning, Lion Australia and SSP Group officially unveiled a new Stone & Wood branded beer bar at Sydney Airport’s T3 Domestic.
Developed and launched by SSP Group with support from Lion Australia, the venue is the first ever Stone & Wood branded bar to open at a major airport, marking a significant step in the brand’s expansion. The new bar also signifies the first permanent Stone & Wood venue south of Byron Bay, and will complement the brand’s breweries in Byron Bay, Brisbane, and Murwillumbah, which is currently undergoing a $30 million upgrade.
“By blending SSP’s renowned hospitality expertise with Stone & Wood’s rich brewing heritage, this venue offers travelers a unique airport experience that celebrates great beer,” said Paul Tansley, Head of Strategy and Creative at Stone & Wood.
John Chapman, SSP Group’s Chief Operating Officer, added: “The Stone & Wood bar reflects our dedication to enhancing the traveler experience by offering premium, locally-inspired beverage options.”
The Sydney Airport bar will offer all of Stone & Wood’s core range beers in a relaxed setting directly inspired by the brand’s Northern Rivers homeland. Lion’s Regional Brewery Network Director Richie Crowe says Stone & Wood’s strong dedication to upholding and celebrating both its roots and values across all of its venue and packaged ventures has been pivotal to its success.
“Stone & Wood as a brand stays true to its ethos both at the brewery and in the public arena - that was what I found so striking and appealing about the business,” Richie Crowe told Drinks Trade.
“The focus on environmental and community causes is ubiquitous these days but was less so back then and that foresight they showed really drew people to the brand. Provenance is another aspect valued by drinkers… Another pivotal moment [in Stone & Wood's development] was choice of beer style: our flagship Pacific Ale was hazy before the recent haze craze so was hugely ahead of its time.”
Lion’s recent investments in Stone & Wood come at a time of continued growth for the brand, which is currently one of Australia’s fastest growing beer brands. This was further highlighted by Stone & Wood regaining the top accolade of Fan Favourite Craft Beer brand in the Australian Drinks Awards 2024.
The operator of the new Sydney Airport venue SSP Group has extensive experience operating in Australian airports, with a portfolio spanning more than 100 units and 70 brands across 11 airports and one rail station. This includes venues such as Cascade Bar, Newstead Brewing Co, and Two Johns Tap House Bar.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Stone & Wood to create a destination where passengers can relax, enjoy exceptional craft beer, and start their journey in a welcoming and laid-back environment,” concluded Chapman.
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