With America and Scandinavia already on Ilkley Brewery’s export list, the brewery this week revealed it is now distributing its craft ale to China.

Last week, 100 cases of beer, including Mary Jane, Joshua Jane, Ilkley Black, Dinner Ale and the Mayan, left Ashlands Road en route to Shanghai.

Upon arrival, the beer will be distributed to independent retail outlets across the country.

“Over the last year, we have been working with advisors from UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) to establish which overseas markets are most viable for us to target.

“Having now made headway in America and Sweden, we are keen to widen our overseas markets further, so establishing links with China is a great step forward for us,” said Chris Ives, managing director of Ilkley Brewery.

“This initial Chinese order is just one pallet, so we’ll be very keen to hear how well it sells and what the Chinese craft beer market makes of our Yorkshire ale. If it’s well received, we could be looking at high volumes.”