A new campaign is being launched aimed at making it easier to identify beer from independent breweries in pubs, bars, and shops. The Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (Siba) said the move follows increasing demand for local beers.
The society is launching beer pump clips, cans, and bottle labels to identify beers as being produced by a genuine UK independent brewery. The campaign also includes a new “beer checker” tool via indiebeer.uk which allows people to check who owns the brewery they are drinking from.
Production volumes for independent breweries have returned to pre-Covid levels, with cask beer sold in pubs also in double-digit growth, according to Siba. Chief executive Andy Slee said, “Support for local independent brewers has never been stronger and in 2024 we’ve seen independent brewing volumes return to pre-Covid levels.”
“Between them, independent brewers employ 10,000 people, run over 2,000 pubs, bars, and taprooms, and pay millions in taxes in the UK.”
The Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (Siba) has announced a new campaign to aid in identifying beers from independent breweries more easily in pubs, bars, and shops. This initiative comes in response to the growing demand for local beers. Through the use of beer pump clips, cans, and bottle labels, beers produced by genuine UK independent breweries will be distinguished. Additionally, a “beer checker” tool will be launched on indiebeer.uk, enabling consumers to verify the ownership of the brewery they are supporting.
Following the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, independent breweries have successfully restored their production levels, particularly with cask beer experiencing a significant increase in sales within pubs. Andy Slee, the Chief Executive of Siba, expressed the current robust support for local independent brewers, noting the industry’s resurgence to pre-pandemic levels in 2024. Independent breweries play a vital role in the UK economy, collectively employing 10,000 individuals, overseeing more than 2,000 pubs, bars, and taprooms, and contributing substantially to the country’s tax revenue.
The move by Siba reflects a growing trend in consumer preferences towards supporting local businesses and products. By providing clear identification of beers from independent breweries, consumers can make informed choices and continue to champion the independent brewing sector, contributing to its ongoing success.