The long-anticipated $70 million home of Coopers has been unveiled, marking one of Australia’s most talked-about beer and hospitality developments.
The official opening event on Tuesday revealed the new facility at Regency Park, offering visitors the ultimate Australian beer experience, expanding Coopers’ craft credentials, and introducing whisky production for the first time in its 162-year history.
Situated adjacent to the existing brewery, the new world-class facility features:
South Australian Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, officiated the event, which was attended by members of the Cooper family, architects, engineers, and industry and business leaders.
Dr Tim Cooper — Coopers Brewery
Dr Tim Cooper, Managing Director of Coopers, said, “This is one of the most exciting projects we’ve undertaken in the 162-year history of Coopers Brewery.
“Our team has been humbled by the public’s interest, excitement, and support as this impressive building has taken shape.
“We wanted every aspect to be truly world-class and of the highest quality. It’s a significant, long-term investment by our family company and our vote of confidence in the future of Coopers and Australia’s manufacturing industry.
“Coopers is very proud to have created a highly unique and immersive experience that ultimately celebrates the very best of Australian beer.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors from across Australia and overseas into our new home. At the same time, our brewing and distilling team is focused on the opportunities that will emerge from the on-site microbrewery and whisky distillery.”
The venue was constructed by Australian-owned ‘Built,’ creating more than 500 on-site local South Australian jobs during the construction phase.
Designed by Studio Nine Architects, the unique curved design was inspired by the iconic Coopers roundel label and features a sloping amphitheatre showcasing the Brewery grounds and maltings plant.
The interiors, designed by Studio Gram, pay homage to the stainless steel and copper features in the microbrewery and distillery, with timber and concrete elements crafted by local trades.
Visitors to Coopers Brewery can expect:
Incredible Hospitality:
Coopers has appointed one of Australia’s most respected hospitality professionals, industry hall of famer Peter Morelli, as venue manager.
Leading a 24-strong team, he aims to create an unforgettable experience for guests.
The stylish, modern restaurant and bar facilities can hold up to 400 people and feature a beer-inspired menu, a range of Coopers beers on tap, and special release craft beers from the microbrewery.
Exciting Tours:
The popular Coopers Brewery tours are back and now incorporate the new facility and the interactive history display, with special VIP options available for those wanting the ultimate experience. As in the past, proceeds from the tours will support the charity work of the Coopers Foundation.
Microbrewery:
The new microbrewery, made in England, allows Coopers to experiment with craft beer styles available exclusively for visitors. This microbrewery will not impact the operation of the existing brewery, which produces more than 90 million litres of beer annually.
Coopers’ First Whisky:
Fabricated in Scotland, the custom-made copper whisky stills and associated equipment enable Coopers to produce whisky for the first time.
Coopers already produces its own malt on-site, which will be used in the whisky process.
Given the extended timeline for spirit maturation, it will be a few years before Coopers’ first whisky is available for sale, but it will be worth the wait.
The doors will open to the public on August 28.
