WARRINGTON’S award-winning 3 Pugs Gin has taken the tough decision to close down after a roller-coaster seven-years, blaming the impact of Brexit and the pandemic.
Originally launched in her garden shed seven years ago, Christine Ditchfield was joined by her husband Ste as they expanded to business premises at Penketh, inspired by two of the loves in their lives – pugs and gin.
Only last July they were visited by Business Minister Kwasi Kwarteng and Warrington South MP Andy Carter, who were promoting businesses at the heart of the COVID recovery.
But now they have taken the tough decision to close down due to spiraling costs.
Christine said: “Brexit and the Pandemic have certainly had a large part to play in our decision along with the gin market now saturated with so many different small distillers. However we are very proud of our achievements and are signing off with a fond farewell.
Announcing the tough decision on social media Christine said: “It’s a Wrap”…… What a ride it has been, 2015 – 2022! we created a pugtastic brand, we have achieved many goals and awards, Inspiring Women Awards Entrepreneur 2019, London sprits Competition Bronze 2020.
“The pandemic and Brexit have a lot to answer for, but ultimately we decided that it was time for us and the pugs to slow down.
“With a massive THANKYOU from the bottom of our hearts we bid you farewell, the last bottle of Gin has been produced and it’s time we hung up the stills.
“Wish us well for our semi-retirement, we are grateful to all of you that have supported us and if you see us around, taking it easy then say hello and let’s celebrate the last amazing years.
So as 3 Pugs Gin exits Stage Left, we shall be sat at the other side of the counter enjoying all the other gins that are out there.
With much love and fondness Ste, Chris, Pepsi, TuTu and MoJo”
Christine added: “Brexit caused many issues, hikes in logistics, needing to increase orders to get best price as everything increased in price, cardboard for cartons increased by 16% but mainly transport costs and material costs such as bottles became too much, as we were unable to pass that cost on.”
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