Ever wondered how beer brewed in a shipping container became a Dalston sensation?
Meet 40FT Brewery, based in a converted carpark in East London. Since 2015, founders have been crafting award-winning beer from a pair of stacked 20‑ft shipping containers. Despite limited real estate and a short lease, the brewery expanded organically—adding containers, a taproom, and a devoted local following.
🚢 The Container-Difference: Mobility, Affordability, Sustainability
Built from repurposed containers, 40FT Brewery thrives on flexibility:
- The modular setup lets them move or expand if the rent runs out or the lease ends.
- Operating out of a carpark means low overheads, ideal for a startup environment under redevelopment threats.
- Sustainability is baked in—from recycling steel to limiting beer travel. They’re now a Certified B Corporation.
🍺 Small Space, Bold Beer
Inside their narrow footprint, creativity reigns:
- A one-barrel brewhouse fits neatly upstairs.
- Horizontal fermentation tanks squeeze into tight confines.
- Empty kegs double as stools—no space wasted.
Flagship brews include the crisp “Larger” (a citrusy unfiltered lager) and their Pale Ale, both made with English malt and local hops.
🏙️ Becoming a Brewery Landmark in Dalston
Started behind Dalston Kingsland station, 40FT has become a staple of East London’s craft scene:
- Regularly featured among London’s top independent breweries.
- Their taproom sees both locals and venue hires—weddings, corporate events, community gatherings.
- Despite the brewery’s container fame, owners say the focus remains firmly on beer quality over novelty.
“So by using shipping containers, we can turn this derelict place into a place to brew and serve great beer… we own the brewery and the containers.”
— Andreas Pettersson, co-founder of 40FT Brewery
Planning a pop‑up, craft venue, or unique food‑drink site? Look to 40FT’s container model for inspiration—or email me for modular design ideas, community branding tips, or brewing layout plans!
