The founder of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin has become the latest investor in a new brewery set up by a group of Dublin publicans.
Drinks’ industry entrepreneur, Patrick J Rigney, is backing the Changing Times Brewery, the first time he has invested in a brewery.
He is also becoming chair of the new venture, which launched its first two beers just over two weeks ago.
In total €2m is being invested in the new Glasnevin brewery, founded by around a dozen Dublin and Cork publicans.
“I was greatly flattered when I was asked to get involved in Changing Times Brewery, which I think represents a real innovation in the Irish beer market,” Mr Rigney said.
“What attracted me was the family dimension of this business, which very much aligns with our values in The Shed Distillery.”
“The families behind this brewery are steeped in the pub heritage of Dublin and Ireland with years and years’ of experience in catering to their customer’s tastes.”
Mr Rigney founded and owns The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney, which counts among its brands Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, Drumshanbo Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey and Sausage Tree Pure Irish Vodka.
He was previously also involved in establishing Irish drinks brands globally, including Baileys and Sheridan’s Irish Cream.
He also invented 20 other international drinks brands, including Boru Vodka/Castle Brands which he exited in 2005 through a stock market flotation, valued at over $100m.
Changing Times is also backed by brewer Shane Long, publican Benny McCabe and the publican families behind The Ferryman, The Palace, The Long Hall, The Swan, Darkey Kellys, The Bankers, Arthur Maynes in Donnybrook, Devitts, Doheny & Nesbitts, Sheehans, Lemon & Duke, The Bridge 1859, The Blackrock, The Bank and McSorleys.
“It is absolutely fantastic to have a man of Patrick’s experience, creativity, innovation, connections and more join Changing Times,” said Marcus Houlihan of The Long Hall.
“Everyone involved in the drinks’ industry recognises what a titan he is and his history of achievement,” he added.
