LONDON, UK. July 15th, 2025 – With just days to go, Queer Spirits — the world’s first LGBTQ+ co-operative drinks brand — is making a final call for investment in its bold mission to shake up the drinks industry through community ownership.
Founded by husbands Oli Powell and Jon Gronow, Queer Spirits has already launched its flagship product, Queer Gin, and secured a growing presence with LGBTQ+ venues, events and independent retailers.
Earlier this year, the business formally converted to a co-operative society, meaning the founders no longer own it outright. Instead, it is now run and shaped by its members, solidifying Queer Spirits’ commitment to long-term LGBTQ+ community ownership.
The pair are now raising funds to build a working distillery in London — a space to scale production, grow trade partnerships, and become a hub for queer connection and celebration. It’s the next step in building lasting infrastructure that serves and strengthens the LGBTQ+ community.
They’re aiming to raise a minimum of £100,000 through a community share offer, with investment starting at just £50. Every investor becomes a member of the co-operative, with an equal say in how the business is run and a shared stake in its future. SEIS and EIS tax relief is also available on eligible investments.
At a time when queer spaces are closing and support for the LGBTQ+ community is wavering, Queer Spirits is offering something rooted in solidarity, ownership, and long-term commitment.
“We’ve designed Queer Spirits to be different — a brand that puts people before profits and is community-first from the ground up,” said co-founder Oli Powell.
“Together, we can supercharge Queer Spirits and build spaces for our community to thrive. One day, I see our co-operative protecting queer venues under threat, or even launching new ones of our own. This is how we build infrastructure that our community truly owns.”
As part of their radical approach to community ownership, Oli and Jon are developing new ways for both businesses and individuals to participate in Queer Spirits’ future. They’re working on a trade model that will allow venues and retailers to earn shares in the co-operative simply by stocking its products, turning everyday trade into shared investment in the business.
They also plan to introduce a customer loyalty programme, allowing individuals to build ownership through their ongoing purchases. The aim is to ensure that every drink poured, whether in a bar or at home, helps grow a stronger queer economy.
The crowdfunder closes on 28 July 2025. If the minimum target is met, funds will be used to secure a production site to develop new products and scale distribution.
ENDS