Skinner’s Brewery launches drive-through service
Skinner’s Brewery has launched a drive-through service, enabling customers to ‘click and collect’ beer from its brewery HQ on Newham Road, Truro.
The drive-through replaces the on-site brewery shop, which has been closed for the foreseeable future to protect staff and allow the team to focus on doing what they do best – brewing beer.
Fans of iconic Cornish beers such as Betty Stogs, Porthleven and Lushington’s will now be able to place orders in advance – online or over the phone – arriving at the drive-through within a specified time slot to collect their precious cargo.
Stuart Hughes, Sales Manager, said: “We’ve designed a Covid-safe, contact-free system in response to demand for this service. The current situation requires agility and adaptation; we pulled out all the stops to get our drive-through ready after the latest government announcement of a new national lockdown.”
The brewery was able to get the system up and running in record time thanks to Mike Hall, Director of Cornwall EPOS and IT Services, who facilitated the online ordering system and installed the necessary software and hardware within 72hrs.
Elaine Skinner, Brewery Director, commented: “We were searching for specialist help, and by chance we contacted Mike – who happened to be a Skinner’s fan! We’re so grateful for his support and incredible, ‘can do’ attitude. It’s a great example of a local business coming to the rescue when times are tough. Mike is now an honorary member of the Skinner’s ‘Thirst Response’ Team!”
As well as the core range of bottled beers, Skinner’s fans will also be able to drive off with polypins (18 pint containers) of small-batch seasonal brews PennyComeQuick and Cornish Knocker – limited edition beers which were destined for local pubs.
Brewery Founder Steve Skinner commented: “We are heartbroken for all the pubs who have had to shut once again, but hopefully financial support will be forthcoming and we’ll all be able to return to our favourite locals before the year is out.”
He added: “It has been an incredibly difficult time for publicans, and for brewers of all sizes. We really miss the care-free days of simply brewing and selling beer without having to try and reinvent our businesses overnight!”
To use the drive-through service, orders must be placed in advanced (1-5 days before collection) either on the new online platform or over the phone, with payments also taken in advance.
Customers then arrive at the brewery during their time slot – calling a designated order collection number (07966 624460) alerting the brewery team to their order.
Their car boots filled, customers drive away safe in the knowledge that their supplies are replenished, and they have supported the recovery of one of Cornwall’s most iconic brands.