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AN AWARD-WINNING brewery based in Alexandria has seen online sales go up during the coronavirus crisis – but still faces a massive challenge to get through the pandemic.

The multi-award winning Loch Lomond Brewery, located on the Vale of Leven Industrial Estate, would normally be gearing up for a busy summer at this time of year, with beer-lovers excited to take to the outdoor pub benches or even just their own gardens to enjoy the brewery’s range of pale ales and craft beers in the sun.

But while bar sales have ground to a halt thanks to the closure of pubs, restaurants and other hospitality venues, the company says its online sales are prospering.

Fiona MacEachern, managing director at Loch Lomond Brewery, told the Reporter: “We have lost sales in some areas and we have gained in others, so production is not hugely hit.

“We are grateful to our customers who have been hugely supportive and have been using our online facility to purchase beer rather than visit our shop, which we have closed.”

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Fiona knows this could be the harshest time the brewery industry has ever faced.

She said: “It is going to be difficult for most industries.

“Breweries have been particularly badly hit due to the closure of pubs and restaurants.

“But we fully understand and accept this is necessary to fight the virus.”

The UK Government ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses, which includes bars and restaurants, at the beginning of the lockdown – one of the strictest social measures the government has ever had to impose.

Fiona added: “It is a very stressful time for everyone.”

“The business has worked hard to adapt and ensure our staff and customers are kept safe and well.

“As for me and my family? Well, like the business, we have had to adapt.

“I have three children of high school ages, one of which should be doing exams.

“They obviously miss their friends but are keeping in touch through social media and by phone.”

For more information on Loch Lomond Brewery or to support the business, visit lochlomondbrewery.com.