81% of UK beer drinkers feel misled about ownership

Many beer drinkers are unaware that major beer brands are mostly owned by a few large corporations. According to a YouGov survey released by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), 81% of drinkers feel misled by these companies. These corporations have been buying independent craft breweries, such as Beavertown and Camden, without many customers realizing it. Supporting independent breweries can bring more diverse and interesting beers to consumers and help local economies. Ben Cleary, from Full Circle Brew Co in Newcastle, emphasizes that independent breweries create jobs and act as community hubs. Small breweries have struggled recently, with the number in the UK dropping from 1,828 in January 2023 to 1,721 by September 2024, resulting in hundreds of lost jobs. While independent beers may cost more than those from larger brands, they often use high-quality ingredients and focus on craftsmanship. Supermarkets now have a good selection of independent beers, offering customers a chance to support small businesses in their communities. SIBA has launched the Indie Beer campaign to help consumers find truly independent breweries. This campaign includes an online checker and a label to identify independent beers, ensuring consumers know when they are supporting local brewers.