Distilleries

Prohibition Liquor Co. has launched SA’s first-ever booze equity crowdfunding campaign

Adelaide’s Prohibition Liquor Co. has just launched South Australia’s first-ever equity crowdfunding campaign for a liquor business.

Adelaide’s Prohibition Liquor Co. has just launched South Australia’s first-ever equity crowdfunding campaign for a liquor business. This gives loyal customers the chance to become part-owners of the award-winning distillery, making it a big moment for both the local industry and Prohibition fans.

This crowdfunding campaign is a chance for people to help preserve the heritage of Australian distilling. With rising taxes and the increasing control of foreign liquor giants, Prohibition is standing firm to keep Australian craft distilling independent. By staying Australian-owned, supporters will not only get bragging rights, but will also play a key role in protecting the future of Australian-made gin.

A key part of the expansion is the revitalisation of the historic Seppeltsfield Distillery in the Barossa Valley, one of the oldest distilling sites in Australia. Built 147 years ago, the Seppeltsfield Still has been dormant for over 50 years, but Prohibition has big plans to bring it back to life as a world-class production facility, cellar door, and visitor experience.

This will be no small feat. The Seppeltsfield site will not only preserve the rich history of Australian distilling, but also provide a new venue for tastings, weddings, and special events. With over 900sqm of space, the revitalised distillery will be a major drawcard. Prohibition’s expansion plans also include a gin bar at McLaren Vale’s Penny’s Hill Estate and an increased presence in international markets, including France, Japan, and the USA.

Prohibition’s crowdfunding campaign comes at a crucial time for Australian distillers. Australia has one of the highest spirits taxes in the world, which hits small distilleries like Prohibition hardest. Bigger international companies can absorb these costs, making it tougher for local producers to compete.

“We’ve proven ourselves on the world stage with over 200 international awards, but we need support to preserve the unique flavours we are renowned for, and we do that by staying Australian owned,” Director Adam Carpenter said. 

“We’ve seen it happen before; local brands being sold at bargain prices to foreign conglomerates. This impacts the decision-making that can affect how spirits are made and taste. We do not want that, and we know Prohibition’s customers do not want that.”

Australia’s high spirits tax has been a big challenge for craft distillers. Since 2016, Prohibition has faced 19 tax hikes. Right now, the tax is $103.89 per litre, more than double what distillers pay in New Zealand and five times what wine producers pay. This puts pressure on smaller distilleries like Prohibition, making it harder to compete without selling out to larger foreign companies.

For comparison, the USA’s tax is only $14.54 per litre, and the UK’s is $61.90 per litre. The Australian Distillers Association says this outdated tax system holds back local innovation and hurts regional economies, while benefiting the big international companies.

The crowdfunding campaign is about rallying Australians to protect and preserve the country’s distilling heritage. By investing in Prohibition, you’re helping ensure that the next chapter of Australian craft spirits is written by Aussies, for Aussies.

Funds raised will help Prohibition expand its tasting room on Gilbert Street in Adelaide, open new international markets, and fund the restoration of the Seppeltsfield Distillery. It’s a unique opportunity to be part of something special and help shape the future of Australian distilling.

Prohibition is in the initial stages of its crowdfunding campaign, which runs for three weeks. If you want to learn more, simply pop by to register your interest, and they’ll send more information your way. No commitment is required yet – it’s just the information stage for now. This is your chance to own a piece of Prohibition and be a part of something truly special.

To register your interest in “Australia’s most spirited investment opportunity”, click here.

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