Cornwall Cider Shop Forced Cashless After Sledgehammer Raid and Safe Theft
A popular Cornish brewery has been compelled to adopt a cashless policy across all its sites following a violent burglary where thieves used a sledgehammer to break in and tore a safe clean off the wall. The incident occurred at The Bearded Brewery bar and bottle shop in St Agnes, Cornwall, prompting significant operational changes for the business.
Details of the Early Morning Break-In
The raid took place at approximately 2am on Wednesday, April 1, with intruders forcing entry into the premises. According to Kris Gillespie, site manager at the St Mawgan brewery, the perpetrators punched out the lock using a sledgehammer before proceeding to rip the safe from its mounting on the wall. They made off with what has been described as a substantial amount of cash from both the till and the safe, dealing a heavy blow to the small-scale operation.
"We are a micro brewery with small premises and this will have a knock on effect for us," Gillespie explained to local media. "So unfortunately we will go cash free from now on." The decision impacts all the brewery's locations, including sites in Newquay, Mawgan Porth, St Agnes, and its headquarters in St Mawgan.
Police Investigation and Public Appeal
Devon and Cornwall Police have launched an investigation into the break-in, with brewery management urging anyone with information to come forward. Gillespie confirmed that authorities have been notified, but as of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the crime.
"We are appealing for anyone in St Agnes that saw anything to contact the police," he stated, highlighting the community's role in assisting with the ongoing probe. The incident has raised concerns about security for small businesses in the region, particularly those handling cash transactions.
Background of The Bearded Brewery
The Bearded Brewery was established around a decade ago by founders Robbie Langouroux-Fay and Mark "Sparky" Long, who initially brewed cider for a wedding before turning it into a commercial venture. Based near Newquay Airport in St Mawgan, the brewery has expanded significantly over the years.
Its operations now include:
- A five-acre events field
- Bar and bottle shops in Newquay, St Agnes, and Mawgan Porth
- UK-wide distribution of craft ciders such as Carnanton Stag, Cherried Treasure, Just Peachy, Moustache Mango, and Tank Slapper
- Production of cherry brandy, spiced rum, and sloe gin
- Sale of merchandise including hoodies, t-shirts, pint glasses, and tote bags
The brewery has also garnered attention for some of its product names, with industry body The Portman Group previously attempting to ban its 'Unshaven Maiden' cider on grounds of being overly sexual.
Implications of Going Cash-Free
The shift to a cashless model represents a significant change for The Bearded Brewery, reflecting broader trends in retail security and payment methods. While this move may enhance safety and reduce the risk of future thefts, it also requires adjustments for both the business and its customers, particularly those who prefer cash transactions.
This incident underscores the vulnerabilities faced by small businesses, especially in the hospitality and retail sectors, where physical break-ins can have immediate and long-lasting financial consequences. The brewery's response highlights a proactive approach to mitigating future risks, even as the police continue their investigation into this damaging crime.
