Refillable '˜growlers' and in-store tastings: Northampton could join craft beer shop trend

Businessman Matt Boot is hoping to open Beer Guerilla in a former charity shop at 227 Wellingborough Road.

The premises would not only allow punters to select from a range of craft brews and local produce, but it would also allow customers to get refillable containers known as “growlers” topped up with heir favourite draft.

In a planning statement submitted to Northampton Borough Council, Mr Boot said: “It is my intention to create a specialist store to encourage an understanding of and appreciation great beer and offer a great new outlet for many of our local brewers to promote their beers.”

Mr Boot intends to host beer tasting and meet the brewer evenings in-store.

The plans also include a small tasting area a the front of the shop where “customers can sit while trying their beer.”

A “growler” is usually a 1.5 litre glass or ceramic jug which can be re-sealed and used to carry draught beer.

The name, it is believed, comes from the sound “growling” sound such containers make when the beer inside it is moved around.