| Sample Projects |
| "Plan, design and deliver" |
| We offer a wealth of experience developed in studies and projects on hundreds and hundreds of brewing and malting plants world-wide. This in-depth talent, is ready to work for you. |
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Benchmarking Manufacturing Performance
To Assess Internal Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) at 16 plants for a global “top 10” brewer and benchmark performance against First Key’s Global Best Practice Index to identify opportunities to improve operational effectiveness, ensure better utilization of assets and reduce the manufacturing cost base. |
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Viability Study for a Brewpub
The study involved commercial, technical and business plan components. The commercial review covered market opportunities to determine scale of operation, external market possibilities and extent of support for the brewpub. In the technical assessment we identified licensing, local health department, and environmental stewardship requirements as well as the design for incoming product storage, production facilities and end of process storage requirements. This included ancillary facility requirements for offices, quality control labs… resulting in a room list with requirements for steam service, floor drains, special ventilation, special floor and wall finishes, etc., as well as staffing requirements and a strategy for implementation. All the commercial and technical information was pulled together in a pro forma business plan indicating initial capital outlay, life cycle investment, operating costs and return on investment projected over a five year period. |
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Assessment of European Brewery Investment
First Key provided an independent assessment of the brewery’s business and operations from the perspective of a strategic buyer. The report needed to address several strategic issues considered highly sensitive matters by the brewery’s founders. First Key was given one month to complete a wide range of deliverables including: a plant inspection, capacity assessment, capital expenditure plan, management and IT assessment, divisional valuation and carve out assessment, business plan and financial forecast assessment, analysis of branding issues and an overall SWOT assessment from a strategic buyer perspective. First Key assigned several consultants with varying backgrounds to thoroughly address all the key areas reviewed and delivered its report on time and on budget. The client requested our assistance in preparing a summary PowerPoint presentation that was successfully delivered to the brewery’s Board of Directors. |
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Quality Improvement Program for Association of 30 Breweries
A quality improvement program including sensory evaluation (taste panel), lab analysis and an on-site process / operational review. A scorecard of taste / lab / process results vs. best practice is produced with recommendations for improvement developed jointly by each Brewery and First Key. After the implementation of the recommendations there is a second sensory evaluation and lab analysis to benchmark the improvements against the first scorecard results.
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Independent Valuation Opinion
On behalf of a minority shareholder First Key provided an objective assessment of the fair market value of their interest in the brewery for comparison to the Company’s offer price. The assignment was structured into two phases. The first phase included a critique of the Company’s valuation analysis to determine whether any deficiencies or limitations might have resulted in a material undervaluation of the shares. The second phase included a comprehensive valuation analysis and formal opinion prepared with the knowledge that our report may have to be defended in a court of law if legal proceedings were to commence. Because of our involvement, the client received share redemption proceeds in excess of 50% more than the original offer price. |
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Malt Strategy for Major Brewing Company
Development of a malt strategy for a regional brewer with operations in 9 countries. The project involvedthe review of alternative procurement strategy models,recommendations and the preparation for discussions with suppliers. Included wasa review of the existing situation, preparation of audit documents and templates, site inspection of existing malt operations and technical reports on existing facilities. The overall work-flow included group working sessions, draft reports, presentation and discussion of draft reports, andfinal report with recommendations and implementation assistance.
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Refrigeration Evaluation
First Key perform a visual inspection of the ammonia refrigeration system, reviewed drawings and commented on code and safety issues, condition of refrigeration equipment, immediate requirements, and short term and long term requirements. We provided budget cost estimates for recommended improvements and estimated payback of improvement costs. We completed an energy audit of the refrigeration system and provided recommendations for energy efficiency improvements including energy savings and payback analysis of improvements. Also included was a review of operational procedures, operator training and organization with recommendations on operations improvements and work with staff to review and update maintenance procedures. First Key provided a written report.
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Business Plan and Feasibility Study
for a Start-up 100,000 hl/yr Brewery required by a successful Brewpub operator planning to build a new microbrewery and expand into the retail packaged beer market. Our client required a detailed business plan and strategy for expansion, as well as a feasibility analysis for presentation to investors. This included development of a preliminary plant layout, capital cost estimates, volume, pricing and costing estimates all of which were incorporated into a detailed financial model. The project required significant research and analysis of industry trends and competition as well as consultation with multiple internal and external parties including the local government authorities, trade associations and industry participants, as well as client staff and hired consultants to “pull critical information together,” synthesize data and present consolidated results in a cohesive and persuasive report under tight deadlines. |
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Micro Brewery Technical/Operations Assessment
First Key conducted a 4-day on-site review of the micro-brewery and provided the business owners with a detailed report and “road map” for improvingprocess management, quality, and operating systems and procedures. Comment was provided on the following: (a) condition of process equipment; (b) immediate improvement requirements; (c) short term and long term requirements for expansion plans; (d) quality control improvements.We developed an outline of general quality control, upgrade and expansion steps in order to modernize and/or increase the plant capacity and improve quality control -- with the objective to enhance productivity and efficiency at each step. |
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Audit of Malting Facilities and Operations
The objective of the audit was to assess four plants on two levels, to maintain the plants in a functional state and what would be required to develop the plants to achieve a best practice standard for malt production. First Key reported on each plant covering all parts of the process and key equipment including the capital budgets required to maintain the plants at current levels and the options for development of the sites. |
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Market Entry Strategy Study
for a client looking to enter the beer market in an overseas country. First Key conducted a detailed analysis of the country's policies, regulations, and standards for imported beer, and examined the beer market seasonality, segments, and historical sales information by region. A detailed analysis of the distribution system, and access to the distribution system was included. First Key delivered a comprehensive report including a recommended strategy identifying a focused step-by-step plan of action. |
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Environmental Audit
Conduct phase 1 environmental audits at 3 breweries ranging in capacity from 0.75 to 1.5 million hL/yr. Work consisted of visiting each brewery, discussions with local engineering staff coupled with a visual inspection of the facility and surrounding grounds and a review of all existing environmental permits, agreements and waste disposal agreements against local, district and federal regulations. The audit and ensuing report on each of the three facilities was conducted all in accordance with or exceeding the ASTM Guidelines for conducting a phase 1 environmental site assessment audit. |
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Quality Management System (QMS)
for a large multi-plant brewing company in Eastern Europe. The two-stage assignment initially required a prerequisite review of existing brand liquids acceptance in the marketplace, coupled with process / recipe alterations (Liquid Portfolio Management). The second stage focused on the development of a comprehensive QMS for managing and controlling product quality. The QMS includes detailed technical manuals containing specifications, recipes, analytical methods, reporting systems, benchmark performance measures, and an audit program. |
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Strategic Malt Study for Major Malt Supplier
A comprehensive strategic analysis of the malt supply chain in three major global regions. The analysis included consumption trends, malt trade flows, players and malt capacities, planned expansions, andexpected malt supply / demand balance in key end markets. The study included a detailed evaluation of investment considerations including operating and construction costs, production challenges and trade trends, as well as an analysis of the procurement practices of major brewing groups. |
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Purchasing Optimization
by benchmarking the client’s product and services purchasing against best-in-class and identifying cost gaps. First Key presented a new purchasing strategy and action plan to close the cost gaps with identified potential savings in excess of $1.5 million from annual direct material spend and $2.7 million from annual indirect spend. |
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Industry Advisor to Governments
First Key consults to various government authorities with respect to antitrust/competition, regulation and policy, and other industry related matters. |
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Independent Project Assessment for Major Investment Bank
The overall objective of the assignment was to provide the Bank with a critical assessment of the company’s proposed investment plan, its effectiveness and compatibility with existing operations/infrastructure, and the company’s ability to implement its development plan in a cost-effective and timely manner. First Key provide an expert opinion to the Bank by critically assessing the technical risks and opportunities presented by the proposed investment; gave recommendations to mitigate risks and successfully implement the investment plan; confirmed the capital expansion project was well planned with realistic cost and time budgets; and assessed the ability of the existing management to carry out the investment plan in the expected time frame and costs while managing risks. |
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Network Optimization Tool
First Key developed a network flow model with over 1500 variables and delivered a comprehensive "modeling tool" for optimizing beer production volumes and product mix with optimal alignment of beer supply between breweries and company owned restaurants. The optimization tool determined the lowest delivered cost to each location and the total cost of ownership of beer produced at each brewery. |
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New Brewpub
The project included recommending equipment suppliers, acquire supporting equipment and supplies, acquire brewing materials, organize lab and lab equipment, formulate beer recipes, brewing trials and beer development with beer samples, startup and commissioning of brewery equipment in conjunction with equipment suppliers and local trades, hire and train staff brewer, educate and train staff about beers, prepare quality control standards and procedures (manual), and the development of a brewery maintenance management system. |
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Brewery Relocation
of a 1m-hl/yr facility from the United Kingdom to China. First Key was appointed as the agent to sell the brewery and then engaged as project and construction managers for de-commissioning, crating, and shipping the plant for re-installation in China. First Key delivered an on-budget / on-time project that returned an orderly site to the seller's complete satisfaction. |
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Packaging Audit
To Improve Productivity And Cost Efficiencies
for a 1.2m-hl/yr operation involving a complex mix of bottle, can, PET and keg sizes for beer, soft drinks and malta. The assignment involved an evaluation of current line layouts, capacities, operations, and material handling. First Key delivered detailed recommendations for high efficiency layouts, increased line utilizations, changeovers, maintenance, palletizing, maximizing production time and manpower reduction - leading to improved efficiencies and a significant reduction in the overall cost of operation. |
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Investment Evaluation Study
for a 10m-hl/yr brewing company. The assignment required an assessment of the political and economic environment and distribution channels in the country, as well as complete marketing, technical, operations and financial due diligence on the acquisition company. First Key delivered a "complete picture" report on the investment opportunity including recommendations for streamlining promotional spending and re-focusing the brand portfolio, financial proformas, required technical up-grades, and overall joint-venture observations. |
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Refrigeration Audit and Recommendations Study
for a Latin American client with 4 breweries ranging in sizes from 3.5 million hl/yr to 6 million hl/yr. The assignment required a visual inspection of each plant, comments on safety issues, equipment condition, operation, maintenance and staff training and, recommendations for improvements with associated costs and investment returns. First Key delivered this in a comprehensive report detailing the mechanical integrity of existing equipment, identification of technological improvements (energy saving options), and operational review of organization and training issues. |
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Business Plan for Launching a New Contract Craft Brand
The project comprised of an assessment of the opportunity with pricing and cost models,capital requirements, product and packaging specifications, potential co-packers, forecasts and margins. Included was the development of a distribution model and negotiate and draft a production co-pack agreement that identifies the responsibilities of both parties (including but not limited to production volumes , order process and lead time, quality, shrinkage tolerances, price, payment terms, etc.) |
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Brand Acquisition and/or Licensing Strategy Study
to increase volume for a client operating significantly below capacity. The assignment included an assessment of the acquisition environment with strategic marketing and operational consideration for the fit with our client's business. First Key held confidential discussions with brand owners, and delivered a "short-list" of available brands to consider identifying their strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats. |
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Brewery Investment Study
on behalf of an international investment fund looking to invest in an existing brewing operation competing in the Russian beer market. The assignment required an assessment of the current performance and future prospects for the Russian beer market and its major competitors; a capex/capacity review/audit of 2 existing plants and one plant acquisition target for the brewery in question; and an assessment of their market growth plans/strategies including the brand portfolio, pricing, sales, and management. First Key provided a team of 2 specialists in marketing strategy and facilities/brewing for the assignment and delivered a fully integrated report evaluating the investment opportunity and identifying key issues. |
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Investment Study for a Malt Plant in Asia
First Key evaluated a proposed investment strategy for a malt plant in Asia. The study included analysis of the country’s beer market & the malt supply/demand balance; general considerations on investment in the country; and usual terms for contractual relationships and mode of relationships. First Key reviewed the business case and made comments on opportunities and risks identified and provided recommendations in view of mitigating these risks. |
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Process Engineering
for a greenfield 2m-hl/yr brewery. The assignment including lay-out plans for 6m-hl/yr and conceptual study, master plan, preliminary and detailed process design and contract development for the initial 2m-hl/yr installation. First Key delivered design for automated process areas including combi-cellar, yeast room, bright beer cellar, CIP and filter room areas as well as commissioning assistance for start-up and the preparation of operating descriptions and instrumentation design. |
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Expert Witness
a number of First Key consultants have served as expert witnesses on a variety of industry related cases in North America, Europe and Asia. |
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Operations Assessment and Improvement Plan
for a one million hl/yr brewery. The assignment included an assessment of the physical plant, manufacturing cost structure, organization structure, financial analysis and projections, operations benchmarking, and identification of opportunities for improvement. The technical review covered the brewing process, packaging operations, materials handling, and utilities. First Key delivered a comprehensive and detailed report identifying over 60 recommendations for improvement ranked by their impact on quality, cost, and capacity with a priority recommendation for each. |
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Independent Opinions
First Key has a solid track record for providing independent assessments and opinions for asset valuations, acquisition targets, CAPEX budgets, marketing strategy, company performance and other industry related issues. Clients have included major brewing companies, investment partners, financial institutions, development funds and entrepreneurial groups. |
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| Other examples include: |
| Brewery Asset Evaluation (Former Soviet Union) |
| Marketing Audit including evaluation of overall strategy, brand portfolio and rationalisation analysis for a major international brewer (Asia) |
| Logistics Planning for major brewer (Latin America) |
| Benchmarking of operations for brewers (North America / Australia / Latin America) |
| Brand And Facilities Rationalisation Strategy for major brewer (Russia) |
| Strategic Consulting on acquisitions, alliances and licensing agreements (Europe, Asia, North and South America) |
| Due Diligence for major acquisition (USA) |
| Set-Up of Brewing School - The Advanced Brewery Training and Research Institute (China) |
| Technical Partner providing quality and performance audits / technical troubleshooting for brew-pub chain with 23 locations (USA) |
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| We firmly believe that a team partnering approach is
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facing any project. read more+ |
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| Clients |
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| With project experience and representatives in North America, South America, Europe,
Asia and Australia, First Key is well positioned to
support clients and handle their projects anywhere in
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