BUSINESS Minister Kwasi Kwarteng hailed the success of Penkleth based Gin Distillery 3 Pugs Gin during a visit to Warrington to talk to local businesses about operating during the pandemic.
The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, who was joined by Warrington South MP Andy Carter, was visiting small businesses that will be at the heart of the Covid recovery.
They were given a tour of the factory by owners Christine and Stephen Ditchfield, who set up the business inspired by two of their loves in life – pugs and gin!
Mr Kwarteng was fascinated to hear about the production process and how the couple have adapted their business to support the fight against COVID 19, producing thousands of bottles of hand sanitiser and raising money for the NHS through their sales. He also agreed to raise in Cabinet the issue of spirit duty, which is invariably higher than many other types of alcohol on the market.
Minister Kwarteng said: “What a great firm set up by Christine and Stephen Ditchfield who combined their two great loves – Gin and Pugs (!) – into their dream business. They’ve taken a risk and it’s paying off – which is lovely to see”.
Mr Carter added: “Small family businesses are the backbone of Warrington’s economy so it was great to meet Christine and Stephen Ditchfield at 3 Pugs Gin in Penketh today with Secretary of State for Business Kwarsi Kwarteng, to hear about their plans for growth.
“They’ve taken their two loves – gin and pugs and combined them to make a fantastic local business. Four years in and they’ve learned lots and have big plans for the next 12 months. Do take a look at their range of products at www.3pugsgin.co.uk”.
The Government is also working to support small businesses with a range of measures including grants, loans and advice through Warrington Chamber of Commerce.
Caption: BUSINESS Minister Kwasi Kwarteng with Andy Carter, Chrstine Ditchfield and Stephen Fitzsimons, Chief executive Warrington Chamber of Commerce.
Picture: Tony Longmore F11 Photography