On International Beer Day (7 August), Venture Timaru is proud to celebrate one of our region’s enduring industrial success stories: DB Draught Brewery in Washdyke.
Since opening in 1976 as the Mainland Brewery, the site has been part of Timaru’s economic fabric for five decades, supporting local manufacturing capability, regional employment, and the proud South Island story behind DB Draught.
For Venture Timaru, DB’s presence here represents more than a well-known brand. It reflects the strength, adaptability and resilience of businesses that continue to invest in our district through changing markets, evolving customer preferences and shifting global conditions. The brewery has stood the test of time by continuing to modernise, improve and look ahead.
Through HEINEKEN’s ownership and backing, DB has continued to strengthen its Timaru operation, supporting investment in plant, systems and environmental upgrades that contribute to long-term economic resilience.
“In a regional economy like ours, investment of this nature matters. It helps sustain specialist skills, supports local supply chains and reinforces Timaru’s role as a place where nationally significant production can thrive,” says Nigel Davenport, CEO, Venture Timaru.
One of the most exciting parts of DB’s Timaru story is its sustainability progress. Brewing requires energy and water, and many of those demands remain constant regardless of production levels. Yet the DB Draught team has responded with innovation and determination, finding smarter ways to brew.
Between 2023 and 2025, DB’s internal unaudited data reports that heat use at the Timaru brewery dropped by 17% and electricity use fell by 12%, supported by upgrades to older equipment, including refrigeration, and a fresh look at how energy is used across the site. These improvements show how established industries can keep evolving, combining operational excellence with a practical commitment to doing better for the environment.
Water efficiency has also been a standout achievement. By adopting HEINEKEN global best practice and closely monitoring water use, the Timaru team reduced water consumption by 20% between 2023 and 2025, reaching 2.74 hectolitres of water per hectolitre of beer produced. The site is now well on track toward HEINEKEN’s 2030 stretch target of 2.6 litres of water for every litre of beer. Cleaning routines, equipment cleaning order and chemical use have all been reviewed to reduce waste while maintaining strict quality standards.
DB’s environmental leadership in Timaru is also reflected in larger infrastructure changes. The brewery has transitioned from coal to locally sourced biomass for process heat, a major step in reducing emissions and supporting a more sustainable local energy story. Its onsite wastewater treatment plant further demonstrates a commitment to responsible operations, with treated water returned to the environment and by-products able to support composting.
As we mark International Beer Day, Venture Timaru is pleased to acknowledge DB Draught Brewery as a valued local employer, an iconic brand, and an example of regional industry adapting for the future.
DB’s continued presence in Timaru speaks to the strength of our local economy, the capability of our people, and the importance of sustained investment in both production and environmental performance. We are proud to have DB as part of our district’s story and look forward to seeing its progress continue for many years to come.
Find out more about DB Breweries and their sustainability efforts.
