No sooner has the awesome Leytonstone Beer Mile map been published that we hear news of its first casualty. The wonderful little Solvay Society – arguably the area’s craft beer pioneer, and one of the first taprooms to open back in 2019 – has announced it’s closing forever tomorrow (Sat 17th).
“As has been the struggle for lots of breweries with the COVID hangover and rising costs, Solvay will not be continuing into 2023,” says founder Roman. “This decision hasn’t been taken lightly and we hope our fans, crowdfunders, stockists and suppliers and everyone in between understands.”
“We choose to take this moment to remember the last eight years and thank every customer, publican, taproom manager, bottleshop owner, distributor and beer lover for what has been an amazing journey for us. We hope we have been a gateway to the Belgian style of beer for many, and you have enjoyed the unique twist we have put on the beers.
So pop down this weekend if you can for one last fling. It really is a case of use it or lose it in this tough climate: let’s all ensure other Grove Green indies like Arch Deli, Filly Brook, Jo & Kesi, Unity and the Heathcote continue into 2023 and beyond.
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And as the space vacated by Solvay? We hope another East London brewery can make it work.
Solvay Society is open today (Fri 16th Dec) and tomorrow (Sat 17th), its last day of trading, 12midday to 11pm. Follow @solvaysociety
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