A Twickenham based supplier of real ales has brewed itself success through its business partnership with high street giant Mark and Spencer's writes Emma Agyemang .

Real Ales Ltd. has nothing to feel bitter about after quadrupling in size since it began working with the supermarket chain seven years ago.

The partnership which began in 2007 originally saw M&S stock four Real Ale Ltd beers. Since then, the popularity of the specialist beers has led to the retailer stocking 16 beers from different regional breweries across the UK.

These include its top selling ale – Cornish IPA from St Austell Brewery. Other Real Ale Ltd beers found on the shelves of M&S include the London Porter, Cambridgeshire Summer Ale and Sussex Golden Ale.

The success of the business has allowed the local company – founded and headed by beer enthusiast Nick Dolan in 2005 – to increase its staff numbers from three to twelve.

The company has also been recognised with multiple awards. Most recently, it has won the Drinks Retailing Awards National Independent Beer Retailer of the Year for 2014 and Best Retail Business at the Richmond Business Awards, 2013.

Mr Dolan said “We’ve been continuously supported by M&S, who have helped us to grow our business. We’re really passionate about beer, and by understanding what makes a good beverage.”

As well as their successful partnership, the company also runs its own website, which offers over 160 beers, and has a specialist beer shop based in Richmond Road.