Sydney Brewery has acquired the former site of Rocks Brewing Company, transforming the prominent Alexandria venue into Sydney Brewery Alexandria. This strategic move follows the voluntary administration of the brewing operation last October and signals a consolidation trend in Australia’s competitive craft beverage market.
The takeover expands operations to three key sites: a bustling Surry Hills brewpub, an established production facility at Lovedale in the Hunter Valley—which is set to welcome a new 30hL brewhouse by Easter—and the newly rebranded Alexandria location featuring a 20hL brewhouse. This expansion is expected to raise the overall production capacity to over 5,000 hectolitres of craft beers, ciders, and spirits at a time when many competitors face market challenges.
According to Dr Jerry Schwartz, the driving force behind the venture and the leader of Schwartz Family Company, the acquisition not only meets soaring local demand but also leverages a robust hotel network of 15 properties across New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, and Victoria. He expressed confidence that the revamped Alexandria brewpub will quickly become a favorite among both residents and visitors.
The expansion builds on a strong family legacy. Dr Jerry Schwartz inherited the business from his parents, Dr Bela Schwartz and Eve Schwartz, who laid the foundation for what is now Australia’s largest privately owned hotel group. Under the umbrella of Schwartz Family Company, which also oversees diverse ventures such as a leading events centre and an airline, the brewing arm has emerged as a significant player in the nation’s beverage market.
