Founder Menno Olivier Joins La Pirata in Spain
The Dutch craft beer community is facing a major loss as Royal Swinkels has anounced to close Brouwerij De Molen in Bodegraven. Founded in 2004, the brewery gained global recognition for its innovative beers, including the acclaimed Hel & Verdoemenis. Royal Swinkels attributes the potential closure to declining beer consumption and an unfavorable lease agreement, raising concerns about the future of independent brewers in an evolving market.
Despite these challenges, Brouwerij De Molen’s founder, Menno Olivier, is making a fresh start in Spain. After launching his own brand, Menno Olivier Brewing, in 2024, he has now joined forces with La Pirata Brewing, a well-respected Spanish brewery known for its experimental approach.
This partnership marks a significant step for both breweries, strengthening their financial and creative synergy. "That Menno is joining our team is truly a privilege," said La Pirata Brewing founder Aran León. "Together, we can push boundaries and keep innovating."
Olivier shares the excitement: "I've always admired La Pirata Brewing for its non-conformist attitude and limitless creativity. This partnership allows me to continue Menno Olivier Brewing while bringing my knowledge and vision to La Pirata."
His move to Spain, coupled with the potential loss of Brouwerij De Molen, highlights the shifting landscape of the craft beer industry. While Royal Swinkels claims that Brouwerij De Molen’s beers will remain available, their authenticity and accessibility may change.
Background: The Swinkels Takeover of De Molen
The closure of Brouwerij De Molen comes six years after it was fully acquired by Royal Swinkels Family Brewers. Originally founded by Menno Olivier in 2004 at the historic De Arkduif windmill, the brewery quickly became a leader in the craft beer revolution, gaining international recognition and exporting to over 40 countries. In 2017, it produced over 10,000 hectoliters and was regularly rated as one of the top breweries in the Netherlands.
In 2019, Royal Swinkels, which already owned a 35% stake in Brouwerij De Molen, acquired the remaining shares, integrating it into its portfolio of 26 brands, which includes Bavaria Holland, La Trappe (De Koningshoeven), Palm, Rodenbach, and Holland Malt. The company, managed by the Swinkels family since the 17th century, has expanded through acquisitions, including buying Bier&Co, a major specialty beer importer, and investing in Ethiopia’s and Cuba’s beer market.
However, the challenges of increasing competition in the non-alcoholic segment, price pressure from supermarkets, and regulatory obstacles in international markets have impacted its growth.
As Royal Swinkels navigates these pressures, the fate of Brouwerij De Molen seems to be sealed. The closure raises concerns about the balance between corporate expansion and the preservation of craft beer culture, a sentiment echoed by beer enthusiasts and industry experts alike.
