From Brewery De Zwaan and Mouterij Menu to Mouterij Kloosterzande and finally The Swaen, our company boasts a rich and evolving history that began in 1906. Renowned for our dedication to both quality and tradition, we have continuously adapted to industry changes. By merging traditional malting techniques with modern innovations, we have kept our roots while embracing progress. With more than a century of history, we’ve seen and shaped the industry in countless ways.
Founded in Kloosterzande, in the southwest of the Netherlands, The Swaen has been a key player in both the brewing and distilling industries. We proudly supply high-quality malts to craft brewers and distillers worldwide. Our unwavering commitment to quality defines everything we do. This dedication is what we call the art of malting.
1906 – Writing history
Our history starts in 1906, when ‘De Zwaan’ is born. Jos Buysrogge and Alois Adriaansens establish their malting and brewery business, despite the devastating floods that affected the region. The malt floor had a capacity of 600 kg (1300 lbs) a week.
1923 – Change of ownership
The original malting and brewery business changes hands, as Joos Menu acquires it and renames the manor house ‘Mouternest’. This marks the beginning of a new chapter.
1947 – Dark times in history
During World War II, the occupying forces remove the copper brewing installations for the weapons industry. As a result, the brewery closes after the war. The Menu family now fully focuses on malting.
1950s – Beyond borders
The malting business flourishes. We ramp up production to meet the increasing local demand while expanding our export business. The malthouse installed seven Saladin germination boxes that had a capacity of 10-12 ton each.
1955 – History in the making
We invest in the business by upgrading our facilities, including the construction of new silos to support growing production.
1960s – Growing further
The germination boxes are expanded to 25-30 ton each. Our malt capacity soars to 15,000 MT per annum, cementing our status as a leading Dutch commercial maltster.
1965-1970 – New steep house
To enhance our malting capabilities, we develop and install a more advanced Steeping House, boosting efficiency.
1972 – New malthouse
A new malthouse is constructed, allowing further expansion of the export business. Four germination boxes are installed, with a capacity of 130 ton each. Yearly production rises to 25,500 MT. A peating installation is installed to tend to our distilling customers.
1999 – Rich history
Royal Grolsch, one of the most famous Dutch breweries with a rich history, takes over the malt house. Their expertise and global connections provide fresh energy and drive new commercial developments.
2013 – Joining forces
Malt Master Jos collaborates with the de Groen family to acquire the malthouse in a joint venture, combining world-class tradition and expertise.
2014 – History repeats itself
The company, formerly known as De Zwaan, Mouterij Menu, and Mouterij Kloosterzande, is reborn as The Swaen. Our malthouse adopts a new identity, reflecting our renewed vision and ambition for the future.
2015 – Modern technology
We make a major investment in modern malting technology. We install a new germination system, bagging line, and state-of-the-art Probat drum roaster. This enables us to continue expanding in the craft beer sector, meeting growing demand for high-quality specialty malts.
2019 – New management
A new management team takes over, led by Max (CEO), Sheila (Finance Manager), Oliver (Plant Manager), and Dietrich (Project Manager).
2022 – Advanced kiln
We unveil our new kiln, which not only increases production capacity but also positions us for a more sustainable future. This investment reflects our commitment to both growth and environmental responsibility.
2024 – A new CEO
Wiebke de Groen becomes our new CEO. With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience as a distributor of The Swaen in China, she brings invaluable insights to her new role.
