Diageo to Double Kildare Brewery Capacity for Guinness Growth

URGENT UPDATE: Diageo has just announced plans to double the capacity of its state-of-the-art brewery in Littleconnell, Co Kildare, significantly expanding its production capabilities for Guinness and Guinness 0.0. This ambitious project, which will be submitted to Kildare County Council in early November, is set to transform the €200 million facility into a key hub for global growth in emerging markets.

The expansion will increase the brewery’s capacity to an impressive 4.5 million hectolitres, positioning Diageo to meet rising demand. Recent reports indicate that draught sales of Guinness 0.0 surged by 161% between June 2022 and March 2025, highlighting the zero-alcohol product’s growing popularity.

Diageo’s Global Head of Beer Supply, Colin O’Brien, emphasized this expansion is a critical move for the company’s future, stating, “It’s a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainable brewing and will be an industry gold standard for energy and water efficiency.” The first brews for lagers and ales at the Littleconnell site are expected to commence in early 2026.

Construction at the Kildare brewery has been ongoing since June of last year. This proposed expansion comes as Diageo aims to strengthen its production capabilities for a portfolio that includes popular brands like Rockshore, Harp, Hop House 13, Smithwick’s, Kilkenny, and Carlsberg.

While the St. James’s Gate brewery in Dublin will continue to be the heart of Guinness production, officials assured the community that the Kildare site is a vital part of Diageo’s long-term strategy. A spokesperson for the company stated, “Diageo’s commitment to this iconic site remains stronger than ever.”

This expansion reflects not only Diageo’s dedication to the Irish market but also reinforces Ireland’s strategic position for sustainable export-led growth. As the company prepares to submit its planning application, the brewing giant is poised to capitalize on the rising global interest in non-alcoholic beverages.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Diageo gears up for what could be a transformative era for its brewing operations in Ireland.