Otter Brewery gets a grip on its kegs.

Otter Brewery, based in Luppitt, Devon, has seen rapid production growth, leading to a need for improved handling of the growing number of kegs and casks which are moved on its site every day.

Following a full site inspection, forklift attachments supplier B&B Attachments supplied the brewery with a bespoke KAUP Keg Clamp attachment. This attachment was specially adapted for use in Otter Brewery's height-restricted warehouse. B&B also provided a fully refurbished attachment for loading and unloading.

The customised new keg clamp attachment fitted to a Toyota truck allows for 12 barrels to be handled in a single lift. It enables a secure grip of kegs and casks and provides ease of movement in the height-restricted area for handling both full and empty barrels.

The keg clamp is improving product handling and safety. Its standard features include low-profile stabilisers with long-lasting rubber pads, wear indicators on tines, solenoid valves and end-of-stroke cushioning on side-shift movement. The attachment provides the driver with excellent visibility when approaching the load, while also increasing driver confidence and ensuring safe and secure handling on site. 

Patrick McCaig, sales and marketing director and son of the owner, says: "These attachments are an integral part of our operation. They are used every day, enabling fast and reliable loading, unloading and end-of-line support. The new specially adapted keg clamp attachment has been chosen for its performance in tight turning spaces, maximum productivity and reliable operation in a height-restricted space."

The brewery is named after the nearby River Otter and draws water from the head springs of the river to produce a family of award-winning beers. Founded in 1990 by David and Mary Ann McCaig, the brewery is still run by the family today.

It was named "Most Sustainable Brewery" at the 2011 Society of Independent Brewers awards.