Pioneering Australian non-alcoholic craft brewery Sobah Beverages has entered voluntary administration.
Founded in 2017 by directors and co-owners Clinton Schultz and Lozen McDiarmid, Sobah grew from small-batch beginnings to establishing a national presence.
In August 2023, Sobah opened its own brewery on the Gold Coast, a significant milestone in its journey. However, the brewer said recent economic downturn, combined with broader challenges facing the independent beverage industry in Australia, had placed significant pressure on the business.
In March 2025, Sobah entered a strategic partnership with Black Hops Craft, consolidating brewing and distribution out of their Biggera Waters facility. Since that time, the company has undertaken asset sales, with equipment currently being sold through brokers at Craft Brewing Solutions. The brewery site has also recently sold, although this transaction is not related to Sobah Beverages.
Despite these structural changes, Sobah products remain available and continue to perform strongly in the market. The staple brew Tropical Lager, launched nationally in Dan Murphy’s in March 2025, has been selling well.
The company said its 558 equity crowdfunding investors from the successful 2021 capital raise will be contacted by Worrells, the appointed administrators, regarding details of an upcoming creditors’ meeting.
Directors Clinton Schultz and Lozen McDiarmid: “Sobah was born from our vision to create a healthier, more inclusive drinking culture while celebrating First Nations culture and storytelling.
“We are proud of what we have achieved over the past eight years. This decision has not been made lightly, and we deeply thank everyone who has supported Sobah along the way.”