The 2019 opening of Scotland-born craft-beer juggernaut BrewDog’s sizeable Murarrie brewery was a big deal for local sippers and the suds scene at large, but it was just the first phase of the globe-spanning brand’s Australian expansion. Despite a few COVID-related speed bumps that delayed its nation-wide distribution capability, the past year and a half has seen levels of local support increase beyond expectations – the direct benefit being BrewDog’s decision to accelerate plans for some exciting improvements to its Brisbane beer campus. Today the team announced a two-year plan for the proposed expansion, which includes changes to its brewing and production capabilities, added amenities to its on-site taproom, a second Brisbane bar and the construction of The DogHouse Brisbane – an Australian-first craft-beer hotel catering to humans and their canine pals. The experiential concept was first launched at BrewDog’s hub in Columbus, Ohio, giving craft-beer lovers an unforgettable accommodation experience. BrewDog’s Australian arm will be drawing upon the Columbus blueprint, commencing construction on a planned four-storey, 30-room hotel on a vacant lot adjacent to the Murarrie headquarters. While the specifics of DogHouse’s amenities are still subject to planning and approvals, we’ve been told potential fixtures could include beer fridges in the shower (everyone knows a cheeky shower beer is one of life’s true pleasures), a mini bar stocked to the brim with local brews, beer-infused toiletries (the grapefruit-infused Elvis Juice IPA shampoo is reportedly a treat), a tap system in your room for keg-fresh pours and even a swim-up pool bar – that’s all on top of the comfy fully furnished rooms and suites. Construction is expected to start this year, with the hotel aiming for a 2022 opening.

Before the hotel launches, the BrewDog team will be sprucing up its existing campus amenities. Over the next few months, expect the addition of a new mezzanine and function area inside the taproom space as well as an expanded walk-in takeaway shop and larger kitchen. This follows some recent cosmetic adjustments to the outdoor seating area, which scored some new shade sails and an overall softening of the existing industrial aesthetic. The brewery will also diversify its production capabilities with the installation of a packaging line and pasteuriser, which will allow for the production of an alcohol-free beer range. BrewDog’s ongoing Equity for Punks crowdfunding initiative has reached a $600,000 target, which will go a long way towards the brewery’s Southern Hemisphere aspirations. The coming years will see not only the opening of a second Brisbane bar location, but also BrewDog outposts in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Auckland.

Exciting times are fermenting at BrewDog – rest assured we’ll have a close-up look at these new amenities closer to launch.