Fresh beers, brewed with purpose
Ignition Brewery and Taproom is more than just a place to enjoy fresh, locally brewed beer. It’s a social enterprise with a mission to provide meaningful employment and training for adults with learning disabilities.
They were the deserving winners of our 2024 Mayor’s Business Awards in the ‘Best Community Contribution’ category and now one of the six local business faces of our Discover Lewisham this summer campaign, encouraging people to enjoy our fantastic local businesses and explore what the area has to offer.
“We’re not your traditional brewery.”
The brewery’s model is simple but powerful. The majority of the staff have learning disabilities, they are paid the London Living Wage and take part in every aspect of the business, from brewing to serving in the taproom just metres from the brewhouse.
“People come here – because the beer is good, but they also know that every pound they spend with us, goes that little bit further.”
Ignition isn’t just about beer, it’s about connection. The taproom hosts everything from games nights and music evenings to reading groups and times for the whole family to come and enjoy the space, creating a place where everyone feels welcome.
Sustainability is also a priority, with efforts to minimise waste, reduce beer miles and collaborate with other local independents.
“We wanted to create a welcoming and safe space where people can come and just be themselves.”
This wide appeal has resonated with the community and as a result Ignition have won numerous awards including the ‘Best Community Contribution’ several times at our Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards.
Dave King, one of the directors of Ignition Brewery was thrilled that in last year’s Business Awards, Sydenham emerged as a hotspot for success stories and a high street that’s really succeeding.
Looking ahead, Ignition has just opened their sunny new beer garden and the team are preparing for the upcoming Homestead Café beer festival. With big band nights and new collaborations on the horizon, it's an exciting time for this local favourite. Most importantly, they will continue moving more people with learning disabilities into meaningful employment. Ignition Brewery is proof that when business is driven by purpose, the positive impact ripples through the community:
Location: 44A Sydenham Rd, London SE26 5QF
Open: Wednesday - Saturday