Gold Coast-based craft brewery Black Hops has gone into administration for the second time after failing to secure a buyer.
Administrators Chris Cook and James Robba of Worrells were appointed to Black Hops Craft and Green Hops Brewing on Tuesday.
The award-winning brewery celebrated its 10th anniversary last moth.
Black Hops posted a message on social media saying: “Black Hops has entered into Voluntary Administration, with independent administrators appointed to manage the process and assess the best path forward for the business.
“Voluntary Administration is a formal process that gives a business time to assess its position and work through its options under independent administration.
“What is important to know is that Black Hops remains open and continues to trade as normal. Our taprooms are open, our team is at work, and the beers are still flowing.
“We will share more details as the process progresses. For now, our focus remains on supporting our team, serving our customers, and continuing to do what we do best.
“Black Hops has always been built on the strength of its people and the support of an incredible community. We have felt that support through every chapter of this business, and it means more than ever right now.
“The best way to support us is to keep doing what you have always done. Visit the taprooms, grab a Black Hops beer at your local, and keep backing the team behind the brand.
“We are still here. Still brewing. Still pouring.
“Thank you for standing with us.”
Black Hops director Luke McCormack said in a statement: “Unfortunately, the headwinds affecting the Australian independent brewing sector have never been stronger.
“Over the past few months, the business was well advanced in sales discussions, but regrettably these broke down at the 11th hour.
“We now believe voluntary administration provides the best opportunity to preserve the business and maximise the prospects of a successful future and we will be assisting Worrells throughout this process.”
The brewery initially went into administration in March 2024. In May of that year, a group of existing and new shareholders formed Black Hops Craft Pty Ltd and purchased the brewery.
In June 2024, industry veteran Nick Boots was appointed as Black Hops CEO. Boots prevously held General Manager roles at Kegstar (Brambles Ltd) and Stone & Wood (Fermentum Group).