In this episode of The Beer Rep Chats With, I’m joined by Ross Gandon, founder of Swallow Brew Co, a new independent brewery based on the outskirts of Folkestone, Kent.
Ross shares his journey through the highs and lows of the beer industry, from previous ventures like Angels & Demons and McCann’s Brewery, to starting fresh with a smaller, more creative setup focused on quality, experimentation, and most importantly… having fun.
We dive into:
Ross also talks about building a brewery around creativity, from split-batching beers to constantly rotating styles, and why keeping things simple might be the key to long-term success.
If you’re into craft beer, independent breweries, UK beer industry insights, or thinking about starting a brewery yourself then this episode is packed with honest, no-nonsense insight.
🍺 Check out Swallow Brew Co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swallowbrewco/
The Blind Pig: https://www.instagram.com/theblindpig.folkestone/
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Pod website: https://www.beerrepchats.com/
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - 02:13 Intro & Meet Ross Gandon
02:14 - 05:55 Ross’ Brewing Background & Previous Ventures
05:56 - 09:05 Core Beers: Why Pilsner & Stout
09:06 - 11:30 Launching in a Tough Beer Market
11:31 - 13:35 Early Days & Homebrewing Background
13:36 - 19:50 The Realities of Running a Brewery
19:51 - 23:44 The Folkestone Beer Scene
23:45 - 26:25 The Role of a Tap Room in Brewery Success
26:26 - 28:25 Industry Challenges & Access to Market
28:26 - 32:37 Low & No Alcohol Beer: Trend or Future?
32:38 - 39:31 Turning Drinkers into Fans, Beer Styles, Dream Collabs
39:32 - 43:48 What Needs to Change in the UK Beer Scene
43:49 - Advice to New Brewers & Wrap Up
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