A champion home brewer will see his award-winning brew launch to the public today for the second year running.

Stuart Hubbard took home the Gold at the Society of Independent Brewers & Associates (SIBA) Homenbrew Beer Awards for the second year running in March this year, before joining the brewing team at Copper Beech Brewing Co in Worcester earlier this month to scale up his brew.

His amber ale ‘Solar Flare’ featured Charles Faram’s experimental ‘CF243’ hops – which offer aromas of orange peel, herbs and honey – as well English heritage malt variety Chevalier to create a beer with aromatic orange marmalade and rich malt character.

Champion Homebrewer Stuart Hubbard discusses what he thinks help set his beer apart from the competition;

“The theme for this year’s competition was to brew a single malt and single hop (SMASH) beer, so everyone used the CF243 hops from Charles Faram which has got a lot of orange peel and some herbal character, and I paired it with Chevalier malt which has got quite a sweet marmalade character. So I was hoping they would work well together to create that kind of marmalade character, which I think came through well in the final beer and was enjoyed by the judges.”

The beer will be available via the Copper Beech taproom in Worcester from the 7th of August as well as a select number of local venues in and around Worcester.

Dan Lawson, Copper Beech Brewery Director said;

“As a former homebrewer, it has been a real privilege to be involved in brewing Stuart’s recipe here at Copper Beech. Supporting homebrewing is incredibly important to me, and it has been fantastic to work with Stuart on this beer, as well as welcome him as a guest speaker at our inaugural homebrew festival, Woo Brew.

Stuart is an extremely knowledgeable and talented brewer, and winning this competition two years in a row is a testament to his skill and expertise. It has been a pleasure to help bring his recipe to life on a larger scale.

As a brewery, we are also passionate about supporting hop breeding programmes through Charles Faram. All of our cask beer is brewed exclusively with UK-grown hops, so having the opportunity to showcase another experimental hop through this competition has been particularly rewarding.”

SIBA’s Head of Communication’s and Marketing Neil Walker joined Stuart and the competition sponsor’s Charles Faram and The Malt Miller for the brew day at Copper Beech.

“Stuart is a hugely talented brewer and has a real eye for creating recipes which grab the attention of judges for their professional quality, aroma and flavour. The quality of beer in the SIBA Homebrew beer awards is incredibly high, so to edge out the pack and come away as the overall champion two years running is a truly impressive achievement.”

For the 2026 SIBA Homebrew Beer Awards, SIBA teamed up hop merchants Charles Farams, The Malt Miller and indie brewery Copper Beech to challenge homebrewing members to brew the UK’s best ‘SMASH’ beer, using a single variety of malt of their choice and a single hop, the experimental CF243 provided free of charge by Charles Faram.

Rob Neale, Founder and Director at The Malt Miller had this to say on the awards;

“We’re incredibly proud to support the SIBA Homebrew Beer Awards because they celebrate exactly what makes home brewing so exciting today. The standard of brewing at home has never been higher, with access to the same ingredients, equipment and techniques used by professional breweries. Competitions like this create a genuine two-way exchange of ideas, where home brewers are inspired by the innovation happening in commercial brewing, while commercial brewers increasingly look to the homebrew community for fresh ideas, new techniques and emerging beer styles. It’s also fantastic to be working alongside Charles Faram, who we’ve partnered with for many years. The work they’re doing to champion and develop British hops is hugely important, giving both home and commercial brewers access to world-class home-grown varieties and helping secure the future of British hop growing.”

Charlie Gorham, Head of Marketing, PR & Events, Charles Faram & Co Ltd;

“At Charles Faram, our innovation in hop development requires curiosity, technical understanding and a willingness to experiment, and home brewers bring that in abundance. Their data aids our programme by brewing with hops that only exist in very small quantities.

The SIBA Homebrew Beer Awards, and in turn the SIBA members, embrace those who have a passion for the artistry and comradery that surrounds our common interest. Through competiting at a level judged by professional peers, hobbyists and enthusiast are encouraged to refine their skills, deepen their understanding of brewing science and strive for ever higher standards. Just as importantly, this competition brings people together. Building and supporting a strong community is one of our core values, and we’re proud to support an initiative that celebrates craftsmanship, knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and a shared passion for great beer.”

The SIBA Homebrew Beer Awards 2027 will open for entries later this year and is only open to SIBA Homebrewer Members. For more information on SIBA Homebrewer Membership visit www.siba.co.uk/homebrewer

Venues serving the beer

Copper Beech Brewery & Taproom, Worcester

The Oil Basin, Worcester

Beer Lodge, Leamington Spa

Chester Tavern, Kidderminster

Malvern Tavern, Malvern

Maverick Severn, Upton

Cocky Anchor, Worcester

Bull Baiters, Worcester

Bush & Vine, Worcester

The competition saw independent breweries from across Northern Ireland fight it out in a broad range of keg categories, from lager and pale ales, to speciality, sour and wild ales. One of Northern Ireland’s only cask breweries ‘Rough Brothers Brewing’ were also highly rated by judges, taking home a coveted Gold for their Oatmeal Stout and a Silver for their Golden Ale.

The awards are organised by the Society of Independent Brewers & Associates and are judged by expert beer judges, beer sommeliers, and master brewers to international beer judging standards. Bullhouse’s ‘Merc Bro’ beer won the IPA style category before going on to win the Overall Champions judging where all category winners are judged head to head. The beer itself is a ‘New England’ style IPA, brewed with American Mosaic, Simcoe and Citra hops for flavours of juicy tropical fruit and citrus. Collecting the Overall Champion Award on behalf of his team was William Mayne of Bullhouse Brew Co;

“We are delighted that the judges enjoyed Merc Bro as much as we enjoy making it! Huge thanks to SIBA for helping to facilitate the first ever Indie Beer NI competition. Events like this are essential for showcasing the amazing beer being produced by the small but tenacious breweries in Northern Ireland to a wider audience.

The guy’s at the brewery work really really hard and they really deserve it, they work so hard every day and so to take this award home and be able to say that they’ve achieved everything we could ever ask of them and more is just brilliant.”

The awards took place ahead of the Bullhouse Brew Co 10th Anniversary Beer Festival which showcased independent breweries from across Northern Ireland. Winners from the inaugural awards will now go forwards to the UK finals in Liverpool early next year. Presenting the awards was Awards Director Anneli Baxter;

“It was superb to see the quality of beer being produced right now by indie brewers in Northern Ireland and for them to now have a chancve to go up against winners from across the UK at the finals in Liverpool next year. Huge congratulations to Bullhouse, Rough Brothers, and all of this year’s winners in what was a hugely succesful first Indie Beer Awards.”

Judged across a broad range of beer styles, the other Gold winners at thew awards were Boundary Brew Co for Session Lager and Pale Ale, Orneau Brew Co for Premium Lager, Out of Office in the Belgian & Continental Style Beer and Speciality & Flavoured categories, Modest Beer in Session Pale, Mourne Mountains Brewery for Sour & Wild Ale, and Beer Hut for the Double, Triple & Imperial IPA category.

The full list of winners can be viewed via www.siba.co.uk/ibawinners

Three Acre Brewery in Uckfield, Sussex taken home the Overall Champion Award at the Indie Beer Awards South East 2026 with their ‘Bonfire Beer’ – a dark, rich old ale.

The independent brewery started off as a homebrew project in a potting shed in East Sussex, before moving to their permanent home at Little Goldsmiths Farm, where they now brew the South East’s finest cask beer. Their Gold Winning cask ale ‘Bonfire Beer’ is described by the brewery as “Dark, rich and warming. With earthy, biscuity flavours, a balanced sweetness and endless depth.”

The Indie Beer Awards were judged and presented at Windsor & Eton Brewery Taproom ahead of the Windsor Beer Festival, which ran over the weekend. The awards are judged by beer sommeliers, master brewers and other expert beer judges from across the industry. Organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), the Indie Beer Awards name the very best beer from independent breweries in competitions held across the UK.

Chair of SIBA Competitions Committee Anneli Baxter announced this year’s winners;

“Massive congratulations to Three Acre, who won their category before going on to be named the very best of the best in our Overall Champions judging. The quality of the beer was truly superb and to win the competition with a rich, dark old ale on a hot sunny July day is no mean feat, and shows the star quality of the beer. A further well done to all of this year’s winners, who will now go on to compete at the National Finals early next year.”

The Indie Beer Awards included a broad range of beer styles, from pale ales and IPAs to porters, stouts and speciality beer styles. Gold winners from the awards will now go forwards to the National Finals in Liverpool March 2027.

“Our pubs and breweries contribute around 40% of turnover as taxation compared to online global giants that only pay a fraction of that to the Treasury. Rebalancing this tax burden on business rates away from businesses that contribute to the community and support jobs in our towns and villages will make a real difference to every postcode.

“We hope this is the first step in wider support and that the Prime Minister also looks to reduce tax on draught beer sold in pubs and ensuring that small breweries can sell their beers to pubs across the UK.” Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive

Premium supermarket chain Waitrose are running an in-store tasting event this week, pouring three market-leading indie beers in stores across the UK.

Customers will have the chance to get involved in the free beer tastings being held at 35 Waitrose stores this week (23rd-25th July), featuring independent breweries Tap Social, Burning Sky and Lost & Grounded.

The supermarket were the first in the UK to throw their weight behind the campaign which promotes beer from genuine independent breweries, with a new ‘Indie Beer’ section on Waitrose.com and this latest tasting event.

“The best beers in the UK are made by independent breweries and this exclusive tasting event in Waitrose is your chance to try three beers from brewers at the top of their game. These superb British beers really do offer something for everyone to enjoy”

“Lost & Grounded ‘Keller Pils’ is a World-class version of a traditional unfiltered German lager style, brewed with extra hops to make it more aromatic and dry than your standard lager. If pale ales are more your thing then try ‘Time Better Spent’ from Tap Social, a multi award-winning hazy IPA with big juicy fruit flavours of mango and passion fruit, or ‘Arise’ by Burning Sky, a bright and balanced beer with peach and pine aromas.” Neil Walker, Indie Beer campaign Co-Ordinator & Beer Sommelier

As well as the in-store tasting event, beers from independent breweries appear in an Indie Beer section of the Waitrose online store, reserved exclusively for beers from genuine independent breweries and excluding so called ‘craft beers’ produced or owned by Global beer companies. The retailer was the first to publicly back the Indie Beer campaign and the move to launch the Indie Beer section earlier this year coincided with the introduction of an expanded beer range from Waitrose including a focus on beer from local, independent breweries.

Launching the partnership, Jourdan Gabbini, Waitrose Beer and Cider Buyer, said:

“I am delighted that we will be the first UK supermarket to officially support the ‘Indie Beer’ campaign. Our beer loving customers are always looking for new beers from innovative, high quality, and exciting independent breweries, and this signposting allows us to champion those producers who do it so well.

“I am proud to continually provide our customers with refreshing, modern options in our beers range at Waitrose while also supporting genuine British independent breweries such as Tap Social, Round Corner, The Kernel and Burning Sky.”

The tastings will take place in Waitrose stores in Abergavenny, Abingdon, Altrincham, Banbury, Bath, Beaconsfield, Beckenham, Berkhamsted, Bloomsbury, Burgess Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge, Canterbury, Chichester, Cirencester, Colchester, Egham, Great Malvern, Horley, Horsham, Hove, John Barnes, Kenilworth, Kingston, Maidenhead, Nailsea, Newark, Otley, Reading, Richmond, Salisbury, Sevenoaks, Southend, Stroud, and Welwyn Garden City.

The Indie Beer campaign was launched in response to confusion amongst consumers over which beers were independent, after YouGov polling found 75% of people surveyed believe consumers are being misled when purchasing beer from once independent craft breweries, such as Beavertown, Camden, and Fullers that are now owned by Global beer giants Heineken, Budweiser and Asahi respectively. The figure for beer drinkers surveyed was even higher, with 81% of beer drinkers believing consumers are being misled.

The campaign has been a trailblazer in the beer market, changing the way that many breweries and pubs talk about beer, dropping ‘Craft Beer’ in favour of ‘Indie Beer’ in an effort to reclaim control and make things clearer for consumers.

The Indie Beer campaign now has over 700 independent breweries from across the UK actively involved, and has struck a chord with consumers too – with an impressive 31% of young (18-24) beer drinkers now aware of the campaign.

View the Waitrose | Indie Beer Store

The time has come to nominate the most talented women in the beer industry! After a successful first edition, the Women in Beer® Awards are back and are now open to submissions,  including the SIBA sponsored Brewer of the Year.

With more than 280 submissions in its very first year in 2025, the Women in Beer® Awards are celebrating excellence and highlighting the women who shape the beer industry. Launching in 2026: a brand-new category, Women Collective of the Year, sponsored by CAMRA.

Who will succeed Kate Hyde, Lily Waite-Marsden or Melissa Cole, who were among the winners for the inaugural edition of the awards? With categories across all parts of the industry, the Women in Beer® Awards are open to anyone who identifies as a woman, regardless of background, age, or role within the beer world, and include those working professionally, independently, or as a volunteer. These awards aim to celebrate and uplift women’s contributions across all areas of beer, not just brewing.

About the Women In Beer® Awards, Amélie Tassin, founder of Women in Beer®, said:

“It’s been brilliant to see how well these awards were welcomed last year. But it also confirmed how needed this kind of celebration is for the beer industry. The support we found from the industry and beer drinkers alike has been fantastic, and I am very proud to bring the event back again this year. ”

Jonny Garrett, co-founder of the Craft Beer Channel and Chair of the British Guild of Beer Writers, who was part of last year’s judging panel, added:

“It was really eye-opening to judge the Women In Beer® Awards last year. There was so much great work being done that I wasn’t aware of, and this is the chance to celebrate and shine a light on lots more examples. So make sure you enter or nominate someone who deserves it. Recognising and supporting the work and achievements of women in beer raises the whole industry higher.”

Taking place in Manchester on the 20th of October 2026, the Women in Beer® Awards Ceremony will kick off the 4th edition of the Women in Beer® Festival, featuring an array of celebrations, networking, and learning opportunities that highlight women in the industry. The awards ceremony and the festival are open to everyone, regardless of gender.

Sponsoring this year, the Women in Beer 2026 – Industry Icon, Charlie Gorham, Head of Marketing, PR & Events at Charles Faram, said:

“The Women in Beer® Awards shine a well-deserved spotlight on individuals who are driving progress through their expertise, leadership and long-term contribution, shaping the future of brewing and inspiring the next generation. Brewing thrives on creativity, innovation, passion, collaboration, and the sharing of knowledge. As the Industry Icon Sponsor, Charles Faram is proud to champion excellence across our industry and support an initiative that celebrates those making a lasting impact on our brewing community.”

The Women in Beer® Awards Categories are:

BREWER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY SIBA
Recognising a professional brewer with more than 3 years of experience who has demonstrated technical excellence, creativity, and leadership within their brewery and the wider industry.

RISING STAR AWARD – SPONSORED BY SIMPSONS MALT
Celebrating someone with under 3 years in the beer industry (between now and 01/01/2023) who shows exceptional promise and early impact. Open to all roles — including brewing, marketing, sales, logistics, events, lab work, and more.

COMMUNICATOR OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY CRISP MALT
Honouring someone who has made a significant impact by communicating about beer through writing, podcasting, video, PR, education, marketing, or social media. Recognises influence, reach, and clarity of voice.

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY THOMAS FAWCETT & SONS
For someone who has launched or led a successful business in beer, from breweries and bottle shops to service providers or platforms. The winner will demonstrate creativity, measurable growth, and leadership in their venture.

BEER EXPERT OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY YAKIMA CHIEF HOPS
Recognising deep expertise in any area of beer — including brewing, tasting, quality control, sensory analysis, cellar work, welding, commissioning or anyone working on the supply chain. The winner will have strong evidence or testimonials to support their achievements.

MENTOR OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY MURPHY & SONS
Celebrating someone who uplifts others in the beer industry through guidance, encouragement, and inspiration. This includes managers, educators, trainers, and facilitators who have played a key role in supporting others’ personal or professional development. The winner will be a role model and mentor whose impact is supported by stories or testimonials.

INDUSTRY CHAMPION OF THE YEAR
Awarded to someone who actively champions the beer industry through advocacy, volunteering, organising, community initiatives, or public engagement. Recognises those waving the flag for beer and positive change.

BEER CREATIVE OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY WHC LAB
Recognising creative talent in the beer world — from graphic designers, illustrators, and photographers to filmmakers, content creators, and brand developers. Celebrates those elevating beer through visual or artistic impact.

HOSPITALITY LEADER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY BBPA
Honouring someone working in beer hospitality — including bars, pubs, taprooms, festivals, and events — who demonstrates excellence, innovation, and leadership in creating welcoming and memorable spaces.

WOMEN COLLECTIVE OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY CAMRA (NEW)
Honouring a group of women who have made an impact in their communities or fostered positive change in the industry. Recognises the power of a group to exert positive influence and drive the community.

WOMEN IN BEER 2026 – INDUSTRY ICON – SPONSORED BY CHARLES FARAM
Selected by the judging panel, this award honours a trailblazer whose work, influence, and legacy have shaped the beer industry for the better. A true icon and inspiration to others.

Enter or submit someone for an award before the 30th of August 2026 on the Women in Beer® website here:
https://www.womeninbeer.co.uk/awards

The Awards Ceremony will be hosted at Cloudwater Brewery Taproom in Manchester, with tickets going on sale in September.

Commenting on the launch of CAMRA’s hard-hitting report into the UK pub and beer market, Andy Slee, Society of Independent Brewers & Associates (SIBA) Chief Executive said;

“As Europe’s largest beer consumer group, CAMRA are right to call for change for a UK brewing industry which is dominated by global beer giants which restrict access for British independent breweries.

At the heart of their excellent report is a call for greater consumer choice, transparency around brewery ownership, and lower taxes for small independent breweries – which SIBA wholeheartedly supports.

It is clear the strong consumer demand for a broad range of beers from independent breweries is being stifled by the Global brewer strong hold on the market.

Eighty percent of beer drinkers want to see independent beer alongside global brands on the bar, yet our indie brewers are locked out of supplying 63% of pubs.

This is bad for pub goers, bad for landlords, and bad for the health and vibrancy of the British pub and beer market.

SIBA’s own Indie Beer campaign has sought to highlight the lack of transparency of ownership in the UK – making it easier for consumers to find beer from genuine independent brewers, rather than Global-owned craft beer brands.

With an industry facing such pressing issues it is hugely disappointing we still await the outcome of the Government’s review that committed to help independent brewers gain better access to the pub market. Approaching two years on and indie breweries are still being left in the dark.

Finally, that the UK pays beer duty at 10x the rate of fellow brewing nation Germany is absurd and holding back the sector and stopping Britain from becoming the brewing powerhouse it could be. Alongside broader tax cuts for hospitality and brewers, SIBA are calling for Government to cut the tap tax in pubs by widening the draught beer duty differential to 30% at the forthcoming budget.

To unleash the full potential of the independent brewing sector and the jobs it could create throughout the UK all we ask for is fairness in taxation and access to market.

Hats off to CAMRA for highlighting these challenges.” Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive.

CAMRA Beer in the UK Report

https://www1-camra.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/02085928/CAMRA-Beer-in-the-UK-report-web-version.pdf

SIBA’s Indie Beer campaign

YouGov data published during the launch of the Indie Beer campaign at the end of 2024 found 75% of people surveyed believe consumers are being misled when purchasing beer from once independent craft breweries, such as Beavertown, Camden, and Fullers that are now owned by Global beer giants Heineken, Budweiser and Asahi respectively.

When informed that these breweries were actually owned by Global companies and not independent, 75% of people surveyed said they felt consumers were being misled, with the figure for the beer drinkers surveyed even higher at 81% who believe consumers are being misled.

SIBA’s Independent Beer Report 2026
(April, 2026)

Whilst demand for independent beer remains strong, brewers report not being able to access 62% (up from 60% in 2025) of the pubs in their local markets because of the domination of Global brewers.

You can read the SIBA Report in full here.

“Why are we drinking American beer to support the Home Nations in the World Cup?” That’s the question being asked by a beer campaign encouraging Brits to support homegrown independent beer this summer in pubs, bars and homes across the UK.

The Indie Beer campaign has made available a tool that helps people find their local breweries and a ‘brewery checker’ that allows you to check whether the beer you’re buying is a genuine ‘Indie Beer’ or actually brewed or owned by a Global beer giant like Budweiser, Heineken, Carlsberg or Molson Coors.

“Britain is one of the World’s greatest brewing Nation’s, with a beer heritage which stretches back hundreds of years and a thriving independent brewing sector today making World-class brews – but for some reason when it comes to supporting the home-nations for football, British beer goes out of the window.” Neil Walker, Indie Beer campaigner.

American mega brand Budweiser are the Official beer of the FIFA World Cup 2026, but fans are being encouraged to buy a homegrown pint – whether that’s in England or Scotland who are in the competition, or Wales and Northern Ireland who missed out this year.

“There are superb independent breweries across the the whole of the UK, many of which are making one-off beers specially for the World Cup, so there’s really no reason to support an American lager brand when cheering on England or Scotland over the next few months. Just put your postcode into the indie brewery finder to discover breweries near you, or if you’re in the pub use the Brewery Checker to see if the beer you’re buying is the real deal or actually owned by a Global mega-brand like Bud.” Neil added.

The Indie Beer campaign was launched to make it easier for beer drinkers to find out whether the beer they’re drinking is a genuine independent brewery after a string of buyouts made things confusing for consumers. Even ‘craft’ beers that look independent might not be – Beavertown Neck Oil and Brixton Reliance Pale Ale are actually owned by Dutch brewers Heineken, Camden Hells by Budweiser, and even real ale Fullers London Pride is owned by Japanese Asahi.

“This isn’t about shifting people away from lager – there are superb lagers, stouts, and a huge range of other styles being brewed by indie breweries in the UK – this is about supporting the beer being brewed in your country when cheering on our teams this summer.” Neil Walker, Indie Beer campaigner.

The Indie Beer campaign have made two tools available to beer-lovers looking to support local this summer, an ‘Indie Brewery Finder’ where you can add your postcode and find breweries near you, and a ‘Brewery Checker’ where you can add the name of any brewery to see if they’re owned by a Global brand or genuinely independent.

Both tools can be accessed via www.indiebeer.uk

Indie Beer Scotland – 26^th & 27^th June 2026

Organisers of Indie Beer Scotland have today revealed the brewery list for the event, which is set to feature the biggest range of solely Scottish beers available anywhere in the World next month.

Indie Beer Scotland is taking place at the superb Pitt Venue in Granton, Edinburgh, featuring an incredible range of over 200 beers in every style from Scotland’s best independent breweries, plus cider & spirits from independent Scottish producers.

Ian McGrath of Beath Brewing is one of the festival organisers and had this to say on returning to Edinburgh for 2026,

“I’m delighted to reveal the breweries who will be pouring at Indie Beer Scotland this year and can’t wait for festival-goers to try the huge range of beers we are going to have on offer. There’s going to be something for everyone; from modern IPAs and speciality beers to traditional Scottish ales, lagers and stouts, this year we’re pouring one of our biggest selections ever with beers on cask, keg and in bottle & can.”

Indie Beer Scotland is organised by Scottish brewers from the not-for-profit trade association the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates, who have frozen beer prices for the third year running, making the award-winning pints some of the best value in the City.

“Indie Beer Scotland is the biggest range of Scottish beers available anywhere in the World and we’ve frozen beer prices again for 2026 – if you’re a beer lover then you will not want to miss this.” Ian added.

Indie Beer Scotland is the largest showcase of solely Scottish beers available anywhere and offers great value for money, with a large number of session beers including cask and craft keg available from just £4 a pint.

Indie Beer Scotland is also the home of the Indie Beer Awards 2026, with judging taking place to name Scotland’s very best beers prior to the festival opening to the public – making festival-goers the first to try Scotland’s Official best beers, with all this year’s winning beers available over the three sessions Friday to Saturday. Beers range from session strength lagers and pale ales of 4%, to barrel-aged imperial stouts and scotch ales which tip the scales at a punchy 10% abv or more.

Tickets: www.citizenticket.com/events/the-pitt/indie-beer-scotland-2026

When: 26^th & 27^th June 2026

Where: The Pitt Venue, 20 West Shore Road, Edinburgh, EH5 1QD

Session Timings:

Friday Evening 17.30 – 22.30
Saturday Afternoon 11.30 – 16.30
Saturday Evening 17.30 – 22.30

Beer prices:

All beer and cider will be priced at;

up to 4.5% = £4 pint / £2 half
4.6% – 6% = £5 pint / £2.50 half
6.1% – 7.9% = £6 pint / £3 half
8% or above = £3.50 half

Breweries Pouring at Indie Beer Scotland 2026

Ardgour Ales

Arran Brewery

Beath Brewing

Bellfield Brewery

Consolidated Craft Breweries

Cairngorm Brewery Co

Closet Brewing

Scot Brew

Doghead Brewing

Fyne Ales

Highland Brewing Co

Howe Beer Project

Islay Ales Co

Jump Ship Brewing

Kerr’s Farm Brewed Ales

Loch Lomond Brewery

Moonwake Beer Co

Newt Brew Ltd

Origins Brewing

SaltRock Brewing Co

71 Brewing Ltd

Sheep in Wolfs Clothing

Stewart Brewing

Strangers Brewing Company

Sulwath Brewers

Tempest Brewing Co

Wasted Degrees Brewing

Winton Brewery

Williams Bros

Scotland’s biggest beer and music festival is this year joining forces with ‘Indie Beer’, a UK-wide campaign pushing back against Global ‘craft beer’ and helping beer drinkers find genuine independent breweries.

FyneFest is an award-winning, family-friendly beer, food and music festival taking place on the 29^th to 31^st May in the stunning surroundings of Glen Fyne, and will this year only feature the very best beer from indie producers in a wide variety of styles – from hazy pales ales and traditional porters, to lagers, IPAs and speciality beers.

Every beer glass and every beer handpull at the event will proudly carry the Indie Beer mark, leaving festival-goers in no doubt that what they’re drinking is the real deal.

“Since its inception, FyneFest has always been about celebrating the best beers produced by Independent Breweries right across the UK.  We are delighted to be working with SIBA to promote the Indie Beer Brand, so that all our festival goers can understand how important this is to independent breweries.” Jamie Delap, Fyne Ales Managing Director.

Over 700 independent breweries across the UK, many of which will be on the bars at FyneFest, are now actively enrolled in Indie Beer, and since launch the campaign has had real cut through with consumers – with an impressive 31% of young (18-24) beer drinkers now aware of the campaign and a growing fanbase of beer drinkers signed up in support.

“We’re delighted to be working with Fyne Ales, who are not only superb independent brewers themselves but who have also created an event in FyneFest which is a perfect showcase a huge number of other Indie brewers. It’s going to be an amazing event and we can’t wait to see Indie Beer loud and proud across every bar and beer glass.” Neil Walker, Indie Beer campaigner.

You can find out more about Indie Beer via IndieBeer.UK, including access to the Brewery Checker tool – which allows beer drinkers to quickly lookup any brewery in the UK and see if they’re Indie or not. This makes it much easier to find out if the ‘craft beer’ you’re buying is actually owned by a Global beer company such as Heineken or Budweiser, or is the real deal and genuinely independent. 

Fyne Ales will also be joining indie brewers from across Scotland in showcasing their beers at another beer festival next month, the upcoming Indie Beer Scotland in Edinburgh (26-27 June), which boasts the biggest selection of Scottish beers available anywhere on earth! 

FyneFest – 29-31 May
www.fynefest.com

Indie Beer
www.indiebeer.uk

Indie Beer Scotland
www.thepitt.co.uk/event/indie-beer-scotland-2026/ 

The results of the UK’s biggest regional beer competition have today been revealed, with winners from across the Midlands and West of England named Champions in a broad range of beer styles and formats. Loose Cannon brewery (Oxfordshire), Attic Brew Co (Birmingham) and Lincoln Green (Nottignham) took home the biggest awards, being named Overall Champions in the seperate cask, keg and bottle & can awards respectively.

The awards are organised by the Society of Independent Breweries & Associates (SIBA) and were held at this weekend’s Ludlow Spring Festival. SIBA Chief Executive Andy Slee was on hand to help dish out the awards on the day;

“It was great to be back at the superb Ludlow Spring Festival for the Indie Beer Awards and Beer Festival. This huge competition names the very best beers from across the Midlands and West of England in a wide variety of styles, so whether you enjoy lagers and stouts, or hazy pale ales and IPAs, be sure to checkout the winners and find a beer for you. 

In a competition with such a high calibre of entries I’d like to say huge congratualtions to Loose Cannon, Attic and Lincoln Green for being named the ‘best of the best’ in our Overall Champions judging – to win this you have to first win your style cateeory and then go on to be named the best against all other style winners. Well done to them and to all of this year’s winners!”

Loose Cannon took home Overall Gold in the Cask Awards with their ‘Cool Name to Follow’, a strong golden IPA with aromas and flavours of citrus and resinous pine. 

“We’re absolutely delighted to have been awarded Overall Cask Champion at the Indie Beer Awards with our 8.0% Double IPA, Cool Name to Follow. To also see the same beer take Gold in both the Bottle & Can and Keg categories, along with Bronze in the overall Bottle & Can championship, makes the achievement even more special. 

These awards are a real reflection of the hard work, skill and commitment of our entire production team, who consistently push for quality and never settle for ‘good enough.’ Brewing great beer takes precision, passion and a lot of teamwork, and this recognition belongs to every one of them.

What makes this particularly meaningful is the standard of the competition. There were so many highly regarded breweries involved, all producing exceptional beer, and that level of quality really highlights just how strong and exciting the independent beer scene is right now. The Indie Beer Awards showcase the genuine quality of independent brewing across the country.” Alex Scott, Head Brewer, Loose Cannon Brewery

Attic Brew Co’s new Helles Lager was named Overall Champion in Keg – a classic German style Helles with a rich, smooth flavour. MD Sam Back had this to say on their win;

“We’re delighted that our newest core beer has won the overall keg champion award at the Midlands’ judging last week. This premium lager is proving to be a big hit with our customers in the trade and at the taproom as well as with the whole team at Attic.”

Lincoln Green’s ‘Mayfly’ was named Overall Champion in the Bottle & Can Awards. The gluten-free ‘Kölsch-style ale’ is described as crisp and refreshing and drinks much like a German lager. Collecting the award was brewery owner Anthony Hughes;

“We’re absolutely delighted with these results and incredibly proud of the whole brewing team. To receive five Gold awards across such a broad range of styles is a real testament to the skill, passion and consistency of everyone involved in creating our beers.

Mayfly being named overall Bottle and Can Category Champion makes it even more special, as it was the first recipe developed by our Brewer Apprentice, Darryl Shields. That’s a huge achievement for Darryl and a wonderful sign of the bright future ahead of him in brewing.

Recognition from fellow brewers and judges through SIBA competitions means a great deal to independent breweries like ours, and we’re thrilled to see the team’s hard work rewarded in this way.” Anthony Hughes, Lincoln Green Brewing Company.

The Indie Beer Awards include a broad range of beer styles, from pale ales and IPAs to porters, stouts and speciality beer styles. Gold winners from the awards will now go forwards to the National Finals in Liverpool March 2027.

Full Winners List: Midlands & West Indie Beer Awards 2026

A small independent brewery ‘in the Geordie heartland of Blaydon-on-Tyne’ has beaten competition from across the North East of England to be named Overall Champions at the the Indie Beer Awards North East. 

Firebrick brewery won their beer category before going on to win the Overall Champions judging, where the best-of-the-best from across the SIBA North East Region fight it out for the top spot – including breweries from Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, Durham, Cleveland, Yorkshire and Humberside.

The brewery won Gold with their ‘Propa Belta’ Premium Session IPA, which uses a blend of international hop varieities to give big zest and pine aromas over a biscuity malt base.

The awards are organised by the Society of Independent Breweries & Associates (SIBA) and held at Gateshead Rugby Club ahead of their Beer Festival. Chair of SIBA’s Competitions Committee Anneli Baxter helped run the awards and presented Firebrick with their medal;

“The Indie Beer Awards seek to find the very best beers from across the UK, with winners from the North East now going forward to the National Finals to fight it out against the best of the best from other regions. Huge congratulations to Firebrick and all of our category Champions who have not only been named the best in the North East but will now get the opportunity to represent their region on the National stage. Good luck and well done again” for entering such a high calibre of beers in to this year’s cask beer awards.

“Judging beers in a huge range of styles, the Indie Beer Awards really do show the very best the North East has to offer and the quality across the board was incredibly high this year. Huge congratulations to all of the catgeory winners and in particular Harrogate Brewing Co who took home the two top awards of the day – a huge achievement in a very tough judging.” Neil Walker, Indie Beer Awards organiser.

The Indie Beer Awards include a broad range of beer styles, from pale ales and IPAs to porters, stouts and speciality beer styles. Gold winners from the awards will now go forwards to the National Finals in Liverpool March 2027.

Full Winners List – Indie Beer North East

Copperhead Ales and Powderkeg brewery have taken home the top two awards at the Indie Beer Awards South West, which took place yesterday at the MaltingsFest beer festival in Newton Abbot.

It was Copperhead Ales’ ‘Black Flamingo’, a big, bold Imperial Stout at a hefty 8.2% ABV that wowed the judges in the cask beer awards with flavours of rich chocolate and black coffee. Described by the brewery as being “a proper kicker that’ll put hair on the back of your eyeballs. Our thorough brewing process means that despite the strength of Black Flamingo it’s still deliciously drinkable.​”

In the seperate Keg Beer Awards it was Powderkeg brewery’s ‘Paint the Town red’ a brand new American Red Ale which weas launched at the Maltingsfest yesterday in  support of Indie Beer Week, and which has taken home Gold in it’s very awards outing. Collecting the award was John Magill of Powderkeg;

““Wow – What a day! Eight awards and then Overall Keg Champion to crown it all off. It’s a real achievement for the team; we’re all delighted.  Many of our winning beers were special releases for Indie Beer Week, brewed because we really want to showcase the diversity, creativity and quality of Indie beer. It’s really important to us to keep highlighting that the real innovation and the genuine quality in British beer is in the independent sector. And it’s not just us doing that; there are loads of great brewers here in the South West, making great beer and flying the flag. In many ways we’re all in this together and you can see that camaraderie today. Everyone is happy for everyone else. It’s wonderful.”

The awards, which were presented at MaltingsFest opposite Tucker’s Maltings site, are judged by beer sommeliers, master brewers and other expert beer judges from across the industry. Organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA).

“The MaltingsFest is easiloy one of the best beer festivals in the UK, with a truly outsanding range of beers in cask and keg from the South West’s best independent breweries. The quality of entries in the Indie Beer Awards this year was higher than ever andf I want to say a huge well done to all of this year’s winners, but in particular our Overall Champions Copperhead and Powderkeg – the very best oif the best in the South West.” Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive and presenter of this year’s awards.

Members of the public will get a chance to taste the best beers in the South West at the MaltingFest Beer Festival in Newton Abbot which continues today and tomorrow, with tickets available on the door.

Full Results: Indie Beer Awards South West

To view images of the judging and awards presentation click here

As the annual Indie Beer Week continues to celebrate the sector, the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) has today published its in-depth report into the state of independent brewing.

It illustrates how breweries have expanded their local offering and are now selling more beer directly to drinkers. Around half of independent breweries now have a shop (51%) and 46% have a taproom on their brewery sites with a third (33%) selling beer through market stalls and events. To help manage this expansion, breweries say they intend to create over 780 jobs this year and more see investment in developing staff as a top priority.

This is in response to growing consumer interest with the latest SIBA/YouGov survey showing that eight out of 10 beer drinkers, along with 89% of 18-24 year olds, say it’s important to have a range of beers from small breweries on offer alongside Global brands. And in positive momentum for the sector, the number of consumers that ever drink beer has clocked up to 50% in this year’s results, reversing the declines seen in previous years.

The majority of the beers made by independent breweries continues to be packaged into cask (58%) with pale ales, bitters and golden ales dominating the top three beer styles. While only nearly a quarter (27%) of beer consumers drink cask beer, our survey shows the best ways to engage with consumers. Four in ten would try cask beer if they were offered a free sample and 31% would try it if it was made locally.  And to demonstrate the importance of advocacy, 43% of drinkers said they would try a new drink if it was recommended by a friend or family member.

Despite this evolving demand, the market remains restricted. While the new report shows that 82% of small breweries can sell some beer to local pubs they report being unable to sell on average to 62% of the pubs in their local area due to the dominance of the larger Global brewers.

The report also shows that the independent sector remains fragile. Significant pressures – such as from the cost of living crisis, government regulation and taxation and overseas uncertainty – are combining and threatening to storm the sector. Almost half (49%) of breweries say that survival is their top priority and nearly a third (32%) expect turnover to fall this year.  More than half (53%) of brewers sought no investment last year which saw 137 independent breweries close and one pub a day shutting its doors.

“There is no doubt that trade is tough and events are changing rapidly, but small independent breweries demonstrate what successful local community businesses can achieve if they have the right conditions”, says SIBA Chief Executive Andy Slee.

“Small breweries are nimble and innovative and want to expand and grow. Consumer interest for their products is there, they just can’t always get their beers in front of them. Having their own taproom and shop is part of the solution and it’s great to see that more are doing so. But it’s also important to have the chance for local pubs to put them on the bar and access continues to be too restrictive for most small breweries.”

The Indie Beer Week continues until 19 April promoting independent beer, pubs and people with a series of events taking place in brewery taprooms, pubs and bars. More information can be found at https://indiebeer.uk/

The full Independent Beer Report can be accessed here.

Report highlights

• 50% of consumers in the UK ever drink beer, an increase of 3% on 47% last year. 38% of 18-24 year olds say they drink beer.
• 80% of beer drinkers, and 89% of 18-24 year olds, say it is important to have a range of small brewers’ beers on the bar alongside global brands.
• Mean average production volumes have fallen by 10% in 2025, but the median average grew by 14%. Overall UK beer sales were down 1.8% in 2025 and 8.4% down on 2019.
• 51% of breweries have an on-site shop, 46% have a taproom and 57% have a webshop.
• 30% of beer is sold directly to consumers and 33% sell through market stalls and events.
• Almost half (49%) of independent breweries say that survival is the top priority.
• Independent brewers report on average being unable to sell to 62% of the pubs in their local markets.
• 31% of the indie beer workforce is female including 21% of brewery owners. 31% of breweries day that staff development is a top priority with 18% having or working towards a qualification.
• 53% of brewers sought no financial investment last year and 25% of investment was sourced privately through loans from directors or individuals or using personal funds.
• Keg production decreased 5% to 19% of average production in 2025. However bottle production increased to 12% and cans to 11% and cask remained steady.
• Breweries report they expect to create 786 new jobs in 2026, a significant increase from the 557 reported last year.
• 69% of brewers said pale ale was in their top three most produced styles, followed by bitter (56%) and golden ales (42%).
• 41% of beer drinkers would try cask beer if they were offered a free sample and 31% would try if it was made locally.
• 43% of drinkers say they would try a new drink on the recommendation of a friend or family.
• Only 8% of breweries do any export, a fall from 12% last year, representing only 0.5% of average beer production.
• 91% report that their relationship with their local community is important with on breweries on average donating £3,567 to charities in 2025.

Indie Beer Week 2026 begins today, promoting ‘independent beer, pubs and people’ via a string of events taking place in pubs, bars and brewery taprooms across the breadth of the UK.

Events are being run by many of the 700 breweries who now actively support the campaign, up from 400 last year, as well as venue supporters such as bottle shops, pubs and bars.

Taking place from the 10^th to the 19^th April (taking in two weekends), Indie Beer Week will see meet the brewer events, tap takeovers, beer festivals and more take place across the UK. The national beer week was launched by the Indie Beer campaign last year as part of a drive to make it easier for consumers to identify beers from genuine independent breweries rather than Global beer giants.

“Indie Beer Week is a celebration of everything that is great about UK beer, with festivals, beer launches and beer events of all kinds taking place in all corners of the nation –  wherever you are, there is a brewery near you which is part of the Indie Beer campaign, many of which are running some brilliant events over the next ten days. And if you’re unsure if the ‘craft beer’ you’re buying is the real deal then use the brewery checker tool on our website and know for sure.” Neil Walker, Indie Beer Campaign.

A central part of the Indie Beer campaign is to make it easier for consumers to find out whether the beer they’re buying is independent, or actually owned by a Global beer company, by offering a Brewery Checker tool via the www.indiebeer.uk website. The Brewery Checker holds information about every known UK brewery and whether they are independent, or actually owned by ‘big beer’.

The campaign was launched at the end of 2024 in response to confusion amongst consumers over which beers were independent, after YouGov polling found 75% of people surveyed believe consumers are being misled when purchasing beer from once independent craft breweries, such as Beavertown, Camden, and Fullers that are now owned by Global beer giants Heineken, Budweiser and Asahi respectively. The figure for beer drinkers surveyed was even higher, with 81% of beer drinkers believing consumers are being misled.

Since launch the Indie Beer campaign has had real cut through with consumers, with an impressive 31% of young (18-24) beer drinkers now aware of the campaign and a growing fanbase of beer drinkers signed up in support. The campaign also recently announced a partnership with premium supermarket retailer Waitrose, who have backed the campaign with a new “Indie Beer” section on their online store and planned in-store promotion in support of the campaign.

The UK-wide Indie Beer Week is being run via the IndieBeer.uk website and social media channels, promoting in-person events in pubs, bars, breweries and taprooms across the UK.

To find Indie Beer Week events near you or check the beer you’re drinking is an Indie Beer visit www.indiebeer.uk

The SIBA Homebrew Beer Awards judging took place at BeerX 2026 and the winners were presented on stage as part of the Indie Beer Awards 2026 on Thursday 20^th March 2026.

Following the announcement of the results SIBA check the recipes of the winner to ensure they conform to the competition rules. Sadly on this occasion we’ve had to disqualify the Gold Medal winner and award it instead to the Silver Medal winner, Stuart Hubbard.

SIBA appreciates the huge amount of effort put in by all of this year’s homebrew entrants and looks forward to seeing and tasting next year’s entries.

The SIBA Competitions Team

This is the conclusion of a new report published today (1 April 2026) into the Guest Beer Agreement on the first anniversary of its launch. Introduced in April last year, the scheme allows pub tenants in Scotland to directly source their beer from local breweries and sell it in any format they wish including in both cask and keg draught beers. It aims to widen consumer choice, support local independent breweries and empower pub tenants.

The report includes the results of a new in-depth independent survey of more than half of pub tenants in Scotland, commissioned by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), which shines a light on its effectiveness. The Scottish scheme is a trailblazer for the UK as a similar right does not currently exist in England and Wales.

The research shows that fewer than half (45%) of Scottish pub tenants were aware of their new right with tenants from five pub companies not aware of it at all. However, for those that were aware of it, the vast majority (71%) found it be useful for their pub businesses. This increased to 94% for those who have applied for an agreement. Eighty-six percent of those that had an agreement in place said it was improving trade.

While only a fifth had secured an agreement, the research showed significant interest with 1 in 10 having applied and a third saying they intend to apply. Disappointingly there were reports of pub companies dragging out the process and tenants receiving misleading advice about being required to renegotiate their tenancy.

A small but not insignificant number highlighted instances of intimidation and discouragement. One said that “it wouldn’t look good when it came to renewing their tenancy” and another that “the owner of our pub have strongly discouraged it”.

The report’s recommendations include having the Pubs Code Adjudicator, who’s responsible for enforcing the scheme, and pub companies do more to highlight the scheme and improve the information available to tenants.

SIBA Chief Executive Andy Slee said: “The new right to a guest beer is a trailblazer initiative in Scotland launched a year ago. For the first time, it allows pub tenants to have a direct relationship with local breweries and respond directly to consumer demand by serving a local independent beer.

“This in-depth research demonstrates that awareness of the scheme is still too low, but once a tenant is aware, its usefulness to their businesses, to trade and to consumers is crystal clear. There is more that pub companies and the Pubs Code Adjudicator can do to ensure tenants are better aware of the benefits of the scheme.”

SIBA Scottish Regional Director and Managing Director of Fyne Ales Jamie Delap said: “Where it’s been implemented, the Guest Beer Agreement is a win-win for Scottish brewers, pub tenants and beer drinkers. However this report highlights wrongful assertions and barriers that prevent more tenants from accessing the scheme. These need urgently addressing so that all Scottish tenants are fully aware of their rights under the Pubs Code.”

The full report can be found on the SIBA website.

The British beer industry like many others is not without its struggles; far too many pubs are closing, breweries are struggling to remain profitable and drinkers are bemoaning the rising price of a pint. But a recent brewing industry trade show, which pulled in a record number of over 3,680 trade visitors, is showing British independent beer still means business.

The annual BeerX trade show in Liverpool is organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) and attracts brewers and brewery employees, beer buyers and industry professionals to a two-day exhibition of brewing equipment and services, as well as talks, panel debates and tutored tastings. It brings together the British brewing industry under one roof and as well as the trade exhibition also includes awards for beer and brewing businesses, which were once again this year presented by Sunday Times beer columnist and author Pete Brown;

“It’s an honour to be asked each year to present the Business Awards and the Brewing Awards. We hear so much about the challenges facing the industry at the moment and the bad news. For two days we focus on the positives and you realise that amid the nightmarish conditions, independent brewers are still doing brilliant stuff and succeeding.”

BeerX, which was recently named “Event of the Year” at the prestigious Trade Association Forum (TAF Awards), hit some impressive and record-breaking numbers this year across a variety of areas; 3,680 trade attendees, 125 exhibitor companies, 265 beers available via the trade-only beer showcase, 30 seminars, panel debates and tutored-tastings from industry experts, 20 business award winners, and finally 18 fringe events taking place in pubs, bars and taprooms across the Liverpool. This year the event achieved an industry-leading 95% approval rating with exhibitor companies, one of those was Headline partner ekeg, CEO Christian Barden had this to say on this year’s BeerX;

“BeerX was a fantastic showcase of positivity and resilience within the independent brewing industry. Catching up with so many customers, collaborators, colleagues and friends was fantastic. The expanded European and North America appeal was welcome too. Team ekeg were delighted to have the opportunity to launch the new brand and business at such an important event in the international industry calendar.

All events need a payback, so for our Commercial Directors to grow our renting, servicing, and tracking pipeline with over 60 potential new customers was a big positive.”

BeerX UK was this year a truly international event, with a keynote address from Bart Watson the President & CEO of the American Brewers Association, talking about the state of independent craft beer in America. The Independent Brewers of Europe – including representatives from Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Finland, Czech Republic, Poland and Ireland – also launched their first ever joint report “The state of independent brewing: Insights across Europe 2026”.

Winners from the Indie Beer Awards presented at BeerX will now go forwards to compete in European Beer Star in Germany and the World Beer Cup in America, seeking to make clear that British beer can perform with the very best on the World stage. Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive commented;

“It was superb to welcome brewing colleagues from across the Globe to BeerX 2026 and hear that the same challenges face independent breweries there as they do at home in the UK; meeting the demand for indie beer in the face of Global beers’ market dominance and issues with taxation, rising costs and profitability. But by working together we can tackle these issues head on and ensure independent beer gets its fair share of the market, wherever in the world that market exists.

I also want to say a huge well-done to all of this year’s Indie Beer Award winners and wish you the best of luck in the European Beer Star and World Beer Cup competitions – how amazing would it be if one of our British-brewers took home a Gold for Pilsner in Germany or for IPA in America? With this partnership there’s a very real chance and we’re hugely proud to be showcasing British beer on the World stage.”

BeerX 2027 has already been confirmed for the 17^th & 18^th March at Exhibition Centre Liverpool and will seek to build on the success of its most successful year ever in 2026.

In case you missed it here were the key announcements from BeerX 2026:

• UK’s best Indie Beers revealed in historic night for British brewing
   
• Scotland’s Fyne Ales named Brewery Business of the Year at SIBA Business Awards 2026
   
• Europe’s independent brewers show determination as survival and energy prices tops agenda for 2026

Event Attendance

2026 – 3,680
2025 – 3,493
2024 – 2,995
2023 – 2657
2022 – 2,672

Supporting event and awards images: Click here

The results are in for the UK’s biggest beer competition, with three breweries taking the Overall Gold across the Cask, Keg, and Bottle/Can competitions – with winners from the UK now set to go on and be judged Worldwide.

Overall Champion of the Cask in the 2026 “Indie Beer Awards” was Almasty Brewery in Newcastle with their 6% ‘Believe’ New England style IPA, Lakes Brew Co in Kendall won Overall Champion in Keg with their decadent 8.4% “Don’t Make Me Run” Imperial Stout, and Baker’s Dozen in Stamford won Overall Champion in the bottle / can competition with their bright and refreshing 3.2% “Agua Fresca Sour”.

Husband and wife team at Baker’s Dozen, Dean and Jill Baker, were delighted to accept their award;

“Just absolutely incredible, we’re just genuinely overwhelmed to win the best beer in the country it’s just not something that was even on our radar. We brew pale ales and bitters as our bread and butter as a brewery so to win with a session strength sour beer is just incredible. I guess we’ll have to make it again now!” Dean Baker.

“I’m absolutely blown away, it was our ten year anniversary last year so we entered all of these beers that mean a lot to us and we’re really proud of – this beer came about because of a regular customer of ours who runs a mexican food truck and loves the combination of watermelon and hibiscus, and we thought that combo would just make a great sour beer. But we know it’s a bit mad and not what we normally do, so to have judges recognise it at the UK’s biggest beer awards is just huge for us.” Jill Baker.

Judged by brewers and industry experts and organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) at their flagship BeerX UK event in Liverpool, the Indie Beer Awards 2026 run across a huge range of beer style categories including pale ale, IPA, stout and lager. As the UK’s best beer in a bottle or can Baker’s Dozen will now get automatic entry into the World Beer Cup in America, judged against the best beers from around the Globe.

The Indie Beer Awards are the UK National finals and in order to earn a place at the competition brewers must first win Gold at their regional competition – making these Overall Champions very much the ‘best of the best’ when it comes to independent beer. Finalists from Scotland the North East, North West, Midlands & West, East of England, Wales, South East, and South West all fought it out to take home the top spots.

“The demand for independent beer has never been higher and it’s easy to see why when trying some of these award-winners; varied, exciting and all absolutely delicious I want to congratulate all of the winners but in particularl our Overall Champions who are truly the very bets of the best in the UK right now. A huge well done!” Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive

The Indie Beer Awards 2026 take place at the UK’s biggest beer and brewing trade event BeerX, held at Exhibition Centre Liverpool. This year was the event’s biggest ever, attracting a record 3,700 Delegates to a packed conference of talks, seminars, tasting sessions, and of course the beer awards which name the very best of the best in the independent beer industry.

The awards were presented by Sunday Times columnist Pete Brown at the UK’s biggest beer and brewing event – BeerX UK in Liverpool, 19^th March 2026.

Overall Champion of the Cask Indie Beer Awards

Overall Champion of the Bottle/Can Indie Beer Awards

Overall Champion of the Keg Indie Beer Awards

CASK

Cask Session Dark Beer

Cask British Dark Beer

Cask British Bitter

Cask British Best Bitter 

Cask Session Pale Ale

Cask Pale Ale

Cask IPA 

Cask Speciality Light Beer

Cask Speciality Amber to Dark Beer

Cask Imperial & Strong Beer

BOTTLE & CAN

Bottle/Can Non-Alcoholic & Low ABV

Bottle/Can Session Lager

Bottle/Can Premium Lager

Bottle/Can British Ales

Bottle/Can Session Pale

Bottle/Can Pale Ale

Bottle/Can IPA

Bottle/Can Double & Triple IPA

Bottle/Can Speciality IPA

Bottle/Can Amber, Brown & Red Ale

Bottle/Can Stout & Porter 

Bottle/Can Imperial & Strong Ale 

Bottle/Can Sour & Wild Ale

Bottle/Can Continental Style

Bottle/Can Speciality & Flavoured Beer

KEG

Keg Non-Alcoholic & Low ABV

Keg Session Lager

Keg Premium Lager

Keg British Ales

Keg Session Pale Ale

Keg Pale Ale

Keg IPA

Keg Double & Triple IPA

Keg Speciality IPA

Keg Amber, Brown & Red Ale 

Keg Stout & Porter 

Keg Imperial & Strong Ale

Keg Sour & Wild Ale

Keg Continental Style Beer

Keg Speciality & Flavoured Beer

SIBA Home Brew Beer Awards 2026

Overall Champion of the Home Brewer Beer Awards

Winners in the SIBA Business Awards 2026 have today been revealed, highlighting the UK’s very best brewing businesses, pubs and retailers of independent beer – in what was a glittering night for the independent beer industry.

Fyne Ales Farm Brewery in the Scottish highlands beat competition from across the UK to take home the evening’s top award – being named Brewery Business of the Year 2026, after also winning the UK’s Best Independent Brewery Taproom and being Highly Commended in the Collaboration category for their partnership with the Co-Op.

Accepting the award with his brewing team was Fyne Ales Managing Director Jamie Delap;

“Just so delighted to win, these days you’ve got to brew fantastic beer, but you’ve also got to tell great stories. So to be recognised that my team are getting it so right I really appreciate – you’ve got to find really good people, let them do their thing and you’ve got trust your team – which we absolutely do at Fyne Ales.” Jamie Delap, Managing Director.    

Presenting the awards was Sunday Times columnist and beer author Pete Brown, who commented “With a massive 5 nominations, and multiple wins, this year’s Brewery Business of the Year Fyne Ales were a clear standout to the judging panel who were hugely impressed with this unique brewing business across the board. With some of the best beers currently being produced in the UK, in a broad range of styles, a destination taproom and a business which continues to go from strength to strength this years winner was a unanimous choice with the judging panel.”

Another big winner on the night was Howe Beer Project, who were named the UK’s “Best new independent brewery” for their impressive impact since launching last year; “Opening in June 2025 Howe Beer Project have quickly established a community-driven and financially sustainable microbrewery and gathering space, producing top quality beers in an atmosphere that connects people with each other and with the brewing experience. At a time when too many shared spaces are closing Howe have created something to be treasured by their local community.” Pete Brown, Awards presenter.

The SIBA Business Awards 2026 took place at the BeerX trade show in Liverpool lastnight and seek to congratulate excellence in the brewing industry across a variety of categories, from pump clip, can and bottle design, to efforts taken by brewers to make their business more sustainable, diverse, innovative or successful, as well as naming the UK’s best pubs, bars and retailers of beer from independent breweries.

The judging panel for the prestigious SIBA Business Awards 2026 was hosted by Awards partner Napthens Solicitors, and consisted of Rachel Auty (Women on Tap CIC), Chris Welham (LTC), Phil Mellows (Journalist & Author), Tony Sophoclides (UKHospitality), Laura Mackie (SIBA Non-Exec Director), Neil Walker (SIBA HoC), and Andy Slee (SIBA CEO).

The awards were presented by Sunday Times columnist Pete Brown at the UK’s biggest beer and brewing event – BeerX UK in Liverpool, 18^th March 2026.

SIBA Business Awards 2026: Winners

UK’s Best Independent Beer Retailer

Pivovar (Winner)

UK’s Best Beer Bar or Pub – City

The Green Goddess, Blackheath (Winner) 

Old Grey Mare Inn (Highly Commended)

UK’s Best Beer Bar or Pub – City

Brewers 1841, Ossett (Winner)

UK’s Best Independent Brewery Webshop

Hackney Church Brew Co. (Winner)

Marketing Implementation

Indie Rabble (Winner)

Charnwood (Highly Commended)

Community Engagement

Bristol Beer Factory (Winner)

Individual Design

Moonwake – Dolcita IPA (Winner)

Concept Design

Jennings (Winner)

Business Innovation

Three Brothers Brewing (Winner)

Commercial Achievement

Tap Social (Winner)

Employer of the Year

Sheep in Wolf’s Clothing (Winner)

Diversity Champion of the Year

Queer Brewing (Winner)

Best Collaboration

Full Circle x Greggs (Winner)

Fyne Ales x Co-Op (Highly Commended)

UK’s Best Independent Brewery Taproom

Fyne Ales (Winner)

Sustainable Business

Fell Brewery (Winner)

Muntons (Highly Commended)

UK’s Best New Independent Brewery

Howe Beer Project (Winner)

Independent Beer Champion of the Year

Jourdan Gabbini, Waitrose

Lifetime Achievement Award

Adrian Wood (Decd)

Supplier Associate of the Year

BREWW

Brewers’ Brewer of the Year

Fiona MacEachern

Brewery Business of the Year 2026

Fyne Ales

COPY ENDS 

Notes to Editors:

• The Official Category Criteria for each of the awards can be viewed here.
   
• Award winners, crowd reaction and event logo: can be accessed here

These findings are detailed in a new, first-of-its-kind report by the Independent Brewers of Europe (IBE), a cross-border alliance founded in 2024 to represent and protect independent brewing across the continent. Bringing together national associations from Europe, with continued expansion underway, IBE advocates for fair market conditions, transparency and the long-term viability of small and medium-sized independent breweries in a sector increasingly dominated by global corporations.

The report covering more than 3,000 independent breweries, provides a detailed snapshot of the pressures and opportunities shaping the sector across 12 European countries. It shows them grappling with energy price volatility, taxation pressures and intensifying competition from multinational companies that control a significant share of the beer market.

Diversification and adaptation in a shifting market

Most independent breweries remain small businesses: 60% report annual turnover of less than €500,000. Despite their size, their local footprint is considerable. More than a quarter (28%) of beer is sold directly to consumers through taprooms, bars, shops and pubs, while 75% of breweries actively support local causes, underlining their economic and social role within communities.

The report also highlights a generational shift in drinking habits. Younger adults are consuming beer less frequently than older generations, and a higher proportion choose not to drink alcohol at all. However, the data suggests that when younger consumers do choose beer, they are more focused on quality, authenticity and local production. In other words, they may be drinking less overall but drinking better.

To navigate current headwinds, many independent brewers are diversifying. Some 43% now produce additional products, most commonly soft drinks and sodas, while non-alcoholic beer is gaining importance as consumer interest in no- and low-alcohol options

grows. Across Europe, beer styles vary widely, but pale ales, India Pale Ales and pale lagers remain the most commonly produced categories among independent breweries.

“Independent breweries represent an authentic and deeply rooted beer culture that needs defending,” said Barry Watts, Chairman of IBE & SIBA Head of Policy and Public Affairs (UK). “Sadly, too many independent brewers are having to focus mainly on survival and with current international events, energy price shocks are their top issue. Yet despite this they are determined to do things better, to improve their businesses and continue to make innovative beer styles enjoyed by drinkers across the continent.”

Yet the report also highlights cautious optimism. More than a third (37%) of brewers plan to prioritise improving beer quality this year, and 35% intend to invest in new brewing equipment clear signals that many are looking beyond immediate challenges.

“Independent breweries play a vital role in their local economies and communities,” said Kilian Kittl, IBE Co-Chair & Manager of Private Brauereien Bayern (GER). “The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. With the right framework conditions, independent brewers can continue to innovate, invest and thrive.”

As Europe’s brewing landscape evolves, the message from independent producers is clear: survival may be the immediate focus, but they are determined to grow, improve quality and maintain cultural diversity in beer. Because beer is not simply a lifestyle product, it is deeply rooted in Europe’s cultural heritage, shaped by centuries of craftsmanship, woven into regional identity, and carried forward by each new generation that redefines it.

Should you as an independent brewing association want to join the alliance, more information can be found here: https://www.independent-brewers.com/

The full report can be found here.

The Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) has today welcomed Welsh brewers Tiny Rebel back as members following the creation of a standalone Welsh membership region and the launch of the hugely successful Indie Beer campaign. 

Tiny Rebel, based in Newport, Wales, was founded in 2012 and has grown to become one of the UK’s best-known independent craft breweries.

SIBA CEO Andy Slee commented;

“Tiny Rebel have played an important role in driving forwards craft beer in the UK and I’m delighted to have them back as SIBA members and actively supporting the Indie Beer campaign. Making independence from Global beer giants clear has never been more vital, as independent breweries across the UK fight for their share of the beer market and seek to meet the huge demand for local, great-tasting indie beer.”

In an announcement posted to LinkedIn, Tiny Rebel founder Brad Cummings said;

Tiny Rebel is rejoining the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA)

And we’re not coming back quietly…

Independent breweries do far more than just brew great beer. They create jobs, support communities, shape culture and play a vital role in the UK hospitality economy.

Since launching Tiny Rebel Brewery in Newport back in 2012, we’ve been proud to play a part in pioneering and shaping the independent craft beer scene in the UK. From day one we’ve believed that building a brewery means building something bigger than beer. Today that commitment is reflected in our B Corp accreditation and the principles that guide how we operate as a business – focusing on People, Community and Planet.

That’s why we’ve rejoined SIBA and are proud to back the Indie Beer campaign.

As the industry continues to evolve, the voice of independent brewing needs to be louder than ever. UK independent craft brewers play a vital role in keeping the beers on the bar and the shelves in supermarkets new, exciting and full of choice for drinkers.

As the industry moves into its next chapter, breweries need to put their elbows out, stand up for independence and help drive the conversation forward.

If you’re part of the independent brewing community, now is the time to get involved, support the organisations representing us and keep pushing the industry forward together.

Looking forward to working with the SIBA team and catching up with everyone at BeerX next week.

Here’s to independent beer.

The SIBA Competitions Committee is comprised of brewer Directors from each SIBA Region, as well as a representative from the SIBA staff team, and is Chaired by SIBA Director Anneli Baxter. The below changes have been carefully considered and seek to make it easier for breweries entering the awards, and give judges the best possible chance at judging beers fairly and accurately. If you have any questions regarding these changes or would like to give any feedback you can do so by emailing beercompetitions@siba.co.uk

Cask

• No changes to cask categories for 2026.
• View full Cask Category Guidelines

Keg 

• The ‘Non-Alcoholic and Low-ABV’ category which included beers from 0 – 2.8% has been replaced by the new ‘Alcohol Free Beer’ category for beers up to 0.5% abv only. Any beers 0.6% or higher should now be entered into the relevant style category.
• The Continental Style Beer category has been amended to ‘Belgian & Continental Style Beer’.
• View full Keg Category Guidelines

Bottle & Can

• The ‘Non-Alcoholic and Low-ABV’ category which included beers from 0 – 2.8% has been replaced by two new categories; one for ‘Alcohol Free Beer’ up to 0.5% abv only, and a second ‘Low Alcohol Beer’ category for beers 0.6 – 2.9% abv.
• The ‘British Ales’ category which included a range of British beer styles such as Bitter, Best Bitter, ESB, British Golden Ale etc up to 6.4% has been replaced by two new categories; one for ‘British Bitter’ up to 4.4%, and a second for ‘British Best Bitter’ 4.5 – 6.4%.
• The ‘Stout & Porter’ category which included dark beers up to 6.4% has been replaced by two new categories; one for ‘Session Dark Beers’ up to 4.4%, and a second for ‘British Dark Beers’ up to 6.4%.
• The Continental Style Beer category has been amended to the ‘Belgian & Continental Style Beer’.
• View full Bottle & Can Category Guidelines

Finalists in the SIBA Business Awards 2026 have today been revealed, highlighting the independent breweries, taprooms, retailers, pubs and beer industry businesses in the running to be named the best in the UK.

The SIBA Business Awards presentation takes place at BeerX UK in Liverpool in just under two week’s time and seeks to congratulate excellence in the brewing industry across a variety of categories, from pump clip, can and bottle design, to efforts taken by brewers to make their business more sustainable, diverse, innovative or successful, as well as naming the UK’s best pubs, bars and retailers of beer from independent breweries.

“The businesses revealed as finalists in the SIBA Business Awards 2026 have shown judges just how exciting, vibrant and important the independent brewing industry really is in the UK. The quality and volume of entries across the awards was truly outstanding and it was my pleasure to chair the judging panel and help choose this year’s shortlist. I look forward to seeing you all at the awards presentation on the 18^th March in Liverpool where we’ll reveal the overall winners, and huge congratulations on making it this far and being named one of the best in the UK.” Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive.

The judging panel for the prestigious SIBA Business Awards 2026 was hosted by Awards partner Napthens Solicitors, and consisted of Rachel Auty (Women on Tap CIC), Chris Welham (LTC), Phil Mellows (Journalist & Author), Tony Sophoclides (UKHospitality), Laura Mackie (SIBA Non-Exec Director), Neil Walker (SIBA HoC), and Andy Slee (SIBA CEO).

The awards are presented by Sunday Times columnist Pete Brown at the UK’s biggest beer and brewing event – BeerX UK in Liverpool, 18^thMarch 2026.

SIBA Business Awards 2026: Finalists

Marketing Implementation

Charnwood

Fyne Ales

Indie Rabble

Ossett

Sustainable Business

Adnams

Fell

Good Chemistry

Muntons

Community Engagement

Bristol Beer Factory

Gan Yam

The Coach

Three Brothers

Individual Design

Fell, St Sunday Lager

Fyne Ales, Rook

Jennings, Lorton Ale

Moonwake, Dolcita

Twice Brewed, All Out of Bubblegum

Concept Design

Fyne Ales, Origins Project

Jennings, Re-brand

Ossett, Rat Range

Queer Brewing, Re-brand

Tap Social, Core Range

Business Innovation

Fable

Three Brothers

NOA Bakehouse

Commercial Achievement

40ft

Anspach & Hobday

Bollington

Tap Social

Diversity Champion of the Year

Indie Rabble

Sheep in Wolf’s Clothing

Queer Brewing

Employer of the Year

Fell

Sheep in Wolf’s Clothing

Tap Social

Best Collaboration

Ampersand x Norwich University of the Arts

Attic x Cross Country Trains

Full Circle x Greggs

Fyne Ales x Co-op

UK’s Best New Independent Brewery

Howe Beer Project

Jennings

Sheep in Wolf’s Clothing

UK’s Best Independent Brewery Taproom

Bellfield

Fyne Ales

SALT

The Indian Brewery

UK’s Best Independent brewery Webshop

Anspach & Hobday

Hackney Church

Indie Rabble

UK’s Best Independent  Beer Retailer

Pivovar

Stirchley Wines & Spirits

UK’s Best Independent  Beer Bar or Pub – City

Fell Northern Quarter, Manchester

Green Goddess, Blackheath

Old Grey Mare, York

The Coach, Bridgend

UK’s Best Independent Beer Bar or Pub – Rural

Northstowe Tap & Social, Northstowe

The Crafty Dragon, Whitchurch

The Bailey Head, Oswestry

The Brewers 1841, Ossett

Brewers’ Brewer of the Year (Brewer nominated)

Dan Gooderham, Adnams

Fiona MacEachern, Loch Lomond

Harry Gwilliam, Attic Brew Co

Supplier Associate of the Year (Brewer nominated)

Brand Weaver

BREWW

Inspiration

LemonTop

The UK’s biggest brewing industry event, BeerX has gone from strength to strength since moving to Exhibition Centre Liverpool and has been recognised by judges for achieving ‘record attendance and expanded content’.

Presenting the TAF Awards was TV presenter and magician Ben Hanlin, known for appearances on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Celebrity Juice and as a contestant on ITV’s Dancing on Ice. Naming BeerX as the UK’s best event over 500 attendees, Ben highlighted the judges glowing comments;

“SIBA’s Beer event brought together brewers, suppliers and policymakers in a dynamic programme of exhibitions, talks and awards With record attendance and expanded content, the event supported industry networking, growth and best practice. Judges applauded the event’s creativity, energy and industry representation.”

Representing the awards on behalf of SIBA Rachel Harriott, Head of Membership, Neil Walker Head of Comms & Marketing, Anneli Baxter SIBA Director, and Lucy Hunter-Bott, BeerX Bars Manager.

“I’m so proud to be a part of such a fab team and seeing other trade associations with so many members of staff it amazes me even more by what we achieve at BeerX with such a small team!” Rachel Harriott, SIBA Head of Membership.  

The judging panel recognised the growth of the event, with BeerX expanding into three halls of Exhibition Centre Liverpool in 2025, dramatically increasing the event size and creating space for more exhibitors than ever before. Attendance also increased to match, rising from 2995 in 2024 to an all-time high of 3,493 in 2025. The event features a packed content schedule of seminars, talks and tastings, the Indie Beer showcase of 9 regional bars, the SIBA AGM and Members’ Conference, and the Indie Beer Awards and SIBA Business Awards 2026, presented by Sunday Times Beer Columnist Pete Brown.

Approval ratings from attendees also remained impressively high in 2025; with 97% of Exhibitors stating that BeerX is the UK’s best brewing trade show, and 99% of Delegates would recommend BeerX to an industry colleague.

To apply for Delegate Tickets for the event visit www.beerx.org

The entry deadline for the SIBA Business Awards 2026 has been extended to Monday 16th February 2026 – with breweries, retailers, pubs and taprooms urged to get their entries in now for the prestigious industry awards.

The SIBA Business Awards, presented in association with Napthens Solicitors, seek to congratulate excellence in the brewing industry across a variety of categories, from pump clip, can and bottle design, to efforts taken by brewers to make their business more sustainable, innovative or diverse, as well as naming the UK’s best pubs, bars and retailers of beer from independent breweries.

Two new categories have been added for the 2026 awards; ‘Brewing Industry Individual Newcomer of the Year’ and ‘Independent Beer Champion of the Year’.

The Brewing Industry Individual Newcomer of the Year award recognises an individual who having joined the independent brewing industry in the last twelve months has made a significant and positive impact. This positive impact could be on the business, organisation or association they have joined or on the broader brewing industry over the last year.

The Independent Beer Champion of the Year award seeks to highlight the beer industry individual who has had a hugely positive influence on independent beer over the last twelve months. This could be an individual who has delivered positive change or opportunities for independent brewers, championed a new industry cause, helped to create a more inclusive or diverse industry, or helped to shine a light on the sector in an impactful or innovative way. Nominations can be made by anyone working in the independent beer industry, with the winner then voted for by SIBA Members.

The judging panel for the prestigious SIBA Business Awards 2026 will be Rachel Auty (Women on Tap CIC), Chris Welham (LTC), Phil Mellows (Journalist & Author), Tony Sophoclides (UKHospitality), Jamie Allison (Napthens Solicitors), Laura Mackie (SIBA Non-Exec Director), Neil Walker (SIBA HoC), and Andy Slee (SIBA CEO).

The awards are presented by Sunday Times columnist Pete Brown at the UK’s biggest beer and brewing event – BeerX UK in Liverpool, 18th March 2026. 

Entries can be made via www.siba.co.uk/businessawards
 

SIBA Business Awards 2026 Categories

• ·       Marketing Implementation
• ·       Sustainable Business
• ·       Community Engagement
• ·       Best Individual Design
• ·       Best Concept Design
• ·       Business Innovation
• ·       Commercial Achievement
• ·       Best Collaboration
• ·       Diversity Champion of the Year
• ·       Employer of the Year
• ·       Brewing Industry Individual Newcomer of the Year – NEW
• ·       UK’s Best New Independent Brewery
• ·       UK’s Best Independent Brewery Taproom
• ·       UK’s Best Independent Brewery Webshop
• ·       UK’s Best Independent Beer Retailer
• ·       UK’s Best Independent Beer Bar or Pub – City
• ·       UK’s Best Independent Beer Bar or Pub – Rural
• ·       Brewers’ Brewer of the Year (Brewer nominated)
• ·       Supplier Associate of the Year (Brewer nominated)
• ·       Independent Beer Champion of the Year (Brewer nominated) – NEW
   
• ·       SIBA Brewery Business of the Year (Judging Panel Awarded)

Premium supermarket chain Waitrose have thrown their weight behind a campaign to promote beer from genuine independent breweries, with a new ‘Indie Beer’ section on Waitrose.com and planned in-store promotions.

Beers from independent breweries now appear in a new Indie Beer section of the Waitrose online store, reserved exclusively for beers from genuine independent breweries and excluding craft beers produced or owned by Global beer companies. The move coincides with the launch of an expanded beer range from Waitrose including a focus on beer from local, independent breweries.

“It is fantastic to have Waitrose backing the Indie Beer campaign and making it easier for shoppers to buy beer from local indie brewers. Not only have they extended the number of local independent breweries that they sell, with a focus on quality and flavour, but the dedicated Indie Beer section of the Waitrose website makes it crystal clear to shoppers the beer they’re buying is the real deal.” Neil Walker, Indie Beer campaign Co-Ordinator

Waitrose also plan to run in-store promotion of the new beer range to coincide with Indie Beer Week, which takes place from 10-19^th April 2026. Waitrose beer buyer welcomed the partnership with the campaign;

Jourdan Gabbini, Waitrose Beer and Cider Buyer, says: “I am delighted that we will be the first UK supermarket to officially support the ‘Indie Beer’ campaign. Our beer loving customers are always looking for new beers from innovative, high quality, and exciting independent breweries, and this signposting allows us to champion those producers who do it so well.

“I am proud to continually provide our customers with refreshing, modern options in our beers range at Waitrose while also supporting genuine British independent breweries such as Tap Social, Round Corner, The Kernel and Burning Sky.”

The Indie Beer campaign was launched 16 months ago in response to confusion amongst consumers over which beers were independent, after YouGov polling found 75% of people surveyed believe consumers are being misled when purchasing beer from once independent craft breweries, such as Beavertown, Camden, and Fullers that are now owned by Global beer giants Heineken, Budweiser and Asahi respectively. The figure for beer drinkers surveyed was even higher, with 81% of beer drinkers believing consumers are being misled.

The Indie Beer campaign has been a trailblazer in the beer market, changing the way that many breweries and pubs talk about beer, dropping ‘Craft Beer’ in favour of ‘Indie Beer’ in an effort to reclaim control and make things clearer for consumers.

“Unlike ‘Craft Beer’, which is a term used to describe a huge range of beers including some which are actually made by Global companies such as Budweiser and Heineken, there are clear rules around which breweries can and can’t be defined as ‘Indie Beer’. Just like the Red Tractor symbol on produce or the British Lion mark on eggs, consumers can be confident when they see the Indie Beer mark they are buying beer from a true independent brewery.” Neil Walker added.

The Indie Beer campaign now has around 700 independent breweries from across the UK actively involved, and has struck a chord with consumers too – with an impressive 31% of young (18-24) beer drinkers now aware of the campaign.

View the Waitrose | Indie Beer Store

Visit Indie Beer

A brewery in Northumberland have taken home a haul of Golds in the North East’s most prestigious beer competition, the Indie Beer Awards, held at the Brew York Beer Hall in York.

Twice Brewed were named Champions in three keg beer style categories and then the ‘best of the best’ in the Overall Champions judging, taking the Gold medal haul for the brewery to an impressive four. 

Matthew Brown, Head Brewer at Twice Brewed, accepted the awards and had this to say on their win;

“Massively suprised to win, especially with a Dandelion & Burdock sour beer which honestly is a little bit ‘out there’! It’s a beer we’ve tweaked and improved over time and it’s now really exactly where we want it, and it’s great that judges have recognised the hard work that’s gone into it.”

All of the Category Champions will now go forwards to the National Finals of the Indie Beer Awards at BeerX in Liverpool in March, where Twice Brewed will have three keg beers from these awards and an additional cask beer from the seperate North East Cask judging in the running.

“It was one of my aims when I started at Twice Brewed to get our beers to BeerX and onto the Champions bar, so to have multiple beers in the running this year is absolutely amazing and I can’t wait to see how we do at the National.” Matthew added.

Twice Brewed Brewing Co have been brewing on Hadrian’s Wall in the hamlet of Twice Brewed (just next door to Once Brewed) since 2017, but the area itself has a history of brewing since at least the mid 1700s.

The Indie Beer Awards North East were held at the Brew York Beer Hall in York, who are running a free beer festival today and over the weekend featuring all of the winning beers.

“The quality of beers in the Indie Beer Awards North East was phenomenal and I’m very jealous of any beer-lovers near to York who can get down over the next few days to sample some of the very best beers you’ll find anywhere in the UK at the excellent Brew York Taproom & Beer Hall.” Neil Walker, Indie Beer Awards organiser.

The Indie Beer Awards take place across the UK and are organised by the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA).

Indie Beer Awards North East (Keg) – Full Results

Judged at Brew York Beer Hall, York, 28th January 2026

At the heart of revitalising hospitality is a rebalancing of the tax burden between online and highstreet businesses and pubs, and as such it is welcome to see recognition from Government that the business rates system itself will be reformed over the next couple of years.  We look forward to working with industry colleagues and Government to find a more equitable long-term solution to allow pubs and independent brewers to thrive.” Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive

Read the Government’s announcement here.

Brewery Closure Figures also released today: According to new figures released today by the SIBA UK Brewery Tracker, brewery closure rates increased dramatically during 2025 compared to previous years, with a 37% spike compared to the previous year.  Read more here.

The UK now has just 1578 individual breweries as of 1^st January 2026, compared to 1715 at the start of 2025, 1815 in 2024 and 1828 in 2023 when the brewery tracker started. 

The SIBA UK Brewery Tracker is compiled by the Society of Independent Brewers & Associates (SIBA) and considers all known openings and closures to give an accurate representation of the current number of breweries in the UK. The tracker shows a net brewery closure rate of almost three per week (-2.6) in 2025.

SIBA Chief Executive Andy Slee had this to say on the sobering figures;

“Britain is extremely lucky to have such a broad range of passionate, independent breweries brewing beer locally across the UK; but if we don’t act soon to reverse closure rates then we could be facing a survival crisis for British brewing.

The issue here is not one of demand – there is huge demand for beer from local independent breweries – the issue is the tax burden on small breweries, increased merger activity creating consolidation in the market, and restricted access to pubs for small breweries.”

Research published in the SIBA Independent Beer Report 2025 showed independent brewers’ production returning to pre-covid levels and independently brewed cask beer in double-digit growth, yet market pressures and an increase in brewery mergers and acquisitions mean that overall the UK now has 137 less breweries than twelve months ago.

The proposed changes to Pub Business Rates announced in the Autumn Budget 2025 threatened to derail the industry further, seeing huge increases for the majority of pubs, where around 80% of the beer produced by small independent breweries is sold.

An announcement on what will be done to counteract the changes on Pub Business Rates is expected imminently from Government, something SIBA say cannot come soon enough;

“The pub and beer industry is waiting with baited breath to hear how the Government is going to fix the hike in Business Rates for Pubs, but even reversing the changes still only puts the sector back to where it was, and doesn’t deliver the promise of much-needed reforms to address the tax imbalance between traditional and online businesses.”

“We also believe there is a need for globally owned and independent beers to coexist on bars across the UK. We await the outcome of the Department of Business and Trades investigation into how this could happen and look forward to working with all parties to better meet drinker demand.” 

“Britain has a proud brewing tradition and is home to some of the best beers in the world, we have a wonderful story to tell. The time for sentiment is over, Britain’s independent brewers – like the rest of hospitality – need decisive action from Government.” Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive. 

UK YEAR ON YEAR Comparison

1st January 2026 – 1578 (-137)
1st January 2025 – 1715 (-100)
1st January 2024 – 1815 (-13)
1st January 2023 – 1828

Regional Breakdown

International Women’s Collaboration Brew Day is set to take place on 8th March, the annual campaign by Women On Tap CIC bringing together women in the beer industry to brew and raise thousands for women’s causes is in full swing.

SIBA is the headline partner of IWCBD for 2026 and being part of the campaign is free and open to all, giving participants access to the Women On Tap CIC Bursary Scheme for assistance with any incurred participation costs or loss of income, and the chance for them to secure free Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) beer qualifications. In 2025, £27,000 was raised through IWCBD for women’s causes across the globe.

Here are the people and breweries signed up to International Women’s Collaboration Brew Day (IWCBD) 2026 so far: 

• Tap Social Movement
• Hop Notch Brewing (Sweden)
• Merakai Brewing co
• Brewsters Academy & Tolokazi Brewery (South Africa)
• Papworth Brewery
• Emperors x Craft Beer Pin Up X Bang the Elephant
• Burnt Mill Brewery
• Attic Brew Co.
• Hogs Back Brewery
• Maverick Brewing Co
• Lost and Grounded Brewers
• Burton Bridge Brewery
• Loose Cannon
• Hand Brew Co
• Cloudwater
• Treble Brewing and Blending
• Horsforth Brewery
• The Old Cannon Brewery
• Tom’s Tap And Brewhouse x Ladies of Darkness
• No Half Measures X Jaega Wise x Liquid Light
• Brew York
• Haworth Beer Festival x The Burnt Bear
• Double Barrelled Brewery
• Kerroo Brewing
• Moonwake x Women in Beer UK x Glasladies Beer Society x Mother Tongue
• 71 Brewing with Closet, Campervan, Innis and Gun, Heriot Watt University, Cold Town, Jumpship, Edinburgh Beer Factory,  Fyne, Bellfield, Nc’Nean, Gin Bothy, Mattuga Rum, Tayport Distillers, and more.
• Brewing Brothers Brewery
• Duration Brewing
• Twisted Oak Farm Brewery (US)
• Arbor
• Buxton
• Crafty Beer Girls London x Siren
• Castle Rock x Burton Bridge
• Wild Horse Brewing Company Limited
• Women in Beer x Thornbridge
• Radio City Beer Works – Radio City Social, Thirst Drinks Syndicate, The Ale House + others
• Neptune Brewery – Ladies that Beer / Two Cents Pizza
• Beer Club @ Rebellion Brewing (Canada)
• Pillars Brewery
• Somer Valley Brewing
• Full Circle Brew Co
• Werewolf Beer Ltd
• Rigg & Furrow
• Leigh on Sea Brewery
• Everards Brewery
• Beards Brewery (US)
• Tartarus Beers
• Beer Riff Brewing
• Mariana Dominguez is hosting IWCBD at Brew Cluster this year (Spain)
• Bríd’s Cross Brewing Ltd x Crafty Beer Girls Manchester
• Queer Brewing
• Barley’s Angels GR and Archival Brewing (US)

Read more at www.unitebrew.org/2025/10/17/unite-belonging-2026  | www.womenontap.co.uk

SIBA CEO Andy Slee welcomed ekeg on-board as BeerX Headline Supporter for the next three years;

“The support of our Headline Supporter ekeg is hugely valued by myself and the SIBA Team and enables us to deliver the UK’s very best beer and brewing trade event, offering once again free tickets to all SIBA members wishing to attend the event. On behalf of SIBA I’d like to thank Christian and the ekeg team for their support of SIBA’s flagship beer event.” Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive.

ekeg provide renting, leasing, servicing and tracking solutions to over 600 customers daily, own more than 1 million kegs and casks, service just under 4 million kegs and casks every year and “see” over 10 million keg and cask trips from brewery to bar and back again with their award-winning proprietary tracking technology.

“Becoming the headline supporter of SIBA’s BeerX is another landmark moment for all of us at ekeg. We’re all about kegs made simple, and BeerX is the perfect industry platform to showcase and deliver exactly that. SIBA, its members, and BeerX have been a big part of our leadership journey in kegs and casks, so it’s cool to give back with our support, commitment, and energy—fuelling another year of great independent beer, with more draft and less carbon” said ekeg CEO Christian Barden.

Christian will also be part of a panel discussing investment in the brewing and the ekeg team will deliver a separate seminar on ‘Kegs as a service’ – giving expert insight into the logistical challenges and solutions for breweries in the UK.

Featuring a packed schedule of seminars, talks, and panel debates, from some of the most respected voices in the beer industry, BeerX is attended by brewers and beer industry professionals looking to expand their knowledge. It also offers the chance to discover the UK’s best independent beers at the trade-only Indie Beer Champions showcase, view the latest brewing equipment, ingredients and services in the UK’s largest brewing trade exhibition, and of course connect with peers from across the industry.

To register for your BeerX UK 2026 Delegate ticket or to find out more about this year’s event, visit www.beerx.org

Indie Beer Week 2026 will take place from the 10^th to the 19^th April (taking in two weekends), with pubs, breweries and beer retailers running meet the brewer events, tap takeovers, beer festivals and more across the UK. Indie Beer Week was launched by the Indie Beer campaign last year as part of a drive to make it easier for consumers to identify beers from genuine independent breweries rather than Global beer giants.

Last year 118 breweries across the UK ran events as part of the inaugural Indie Beer Week, a number which organisers are keen to surpass in 2026;

“The response to the first Indie Beer Week last year was great, with a massive lineup of beer events happening across the UK and independent breweries of all shapes and sizes getting involved. It’s all about celebrating Indie Beer, grabbing the attention of new customers or offering something fun and engaging to your existing ones – getting involved is as simple as submitting your event via the website.

If you’re a brewery, pub, bottle shop, or venue selling independent beer and want to get involved drop us a line and we can make Indie Beer Week 2026 even bigger and better.” Neil Walker, Indie Beer spokesperson.

The Indie Beer campaign now has 667 independent breweries actively enrolled and has struck a chord with consumers too – with an impressive 31% of young (18-24) beer drinkers now aware of the campaign.

The campaign was launched at the end of 2024 in response to confusion amongst consumers over which beers were independent, after YouGov polling found 75% of people surveyed believe consumers are being misled when purchasing beer from once independent craft breweries, such as Beavertown, Camden, and Fullers that are now owned by Global beer giants Heineken, Budweiser and Asahi respectively. The figure for beer drinkers surveyed was even higher, with 81% of beer drinkers believing consumers are being misled.

The UK-wide Indie Beer Week is being run via the IndieBeer.uk website and social media channels. Any UK brewery, pub or beer venue can apply to have an Indie Beer Week event added free of charge.

Visit the website: www.indiebeer.uk 
Register your event: www.indiebeer.uk/add_event.php

Want to get involved? Here’s how:

Indie Beer Week is open to all types of venue that serve or sell beer from local independent breweries, attracting new customers to your venues or creating something interesting for your regulars – here are just a few ideas for events you could run for #IBW2026.

Indie Beer Festival

Beer festivals can be a great way to attract new customers and build your local following, so why not take advantage of the increased press and promotion opportunities of Indie Beer Week to run a festival, large or small, at one of your venues? We’ll be promoting all events via the Indie Beer social channels and to our growing database of beer fans.

Tutored Tasting

The consumer research conducted as part of the Independent Beer Report frequently shows that consumers increasingly look for an ‘experience’ when choosing where to spend their money, particularly amongst younger demographics – and tutored tastings can be a great way to offer this in a fun and engaging way.

Talking people through a range of beers, discussing the beer styles and what makes each beer special is a great way to get people thinking differently about beer and potentially convert some new beer-lovers.
 
Special Offers or Tasting Flights

Running a special offer or a new ‘Indie Beer Week’ tasting flight can be a great way to capitalise on the buzz of the event and drive some sales through your shop. Again we’ll be promoting as many of these offers as possible so don’t miss the opportunity to drive some sales to your business during #IBW2026.

Tap Takeover

Tap Takeovers can be a great way to get a range of local beers in front of new customers and we’d encourage all independent beer venues, bottle shops and pubs to get in touch with local brewers and get more Indie Beers on the bar during #IBW2026. If you’ve got a tap takeover planned make sure to add it to the website and we can help promote.

Meet the Brewer Event

Best done in conjunction with a Tap Takeover, Meet the Brewer events can be a great opportunity to engage with customers and talk them through the beers from a local brewery.

Register your event via www.indiebeer.uk/add_event.php

Andy Slee, the Chief Executive of Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) where Paul is a Non-Exec Director, had this to say;

“Paul has a long and illustrious history in the beer and brewing industry, and has through his work at the Licensed Trade Charity increased the availability of support for members of the hospitality industry. Most recently he was instrumental in facilitating a partnership between the LBC and SIBA to make financial, emotional and mental health support more readily available for brewers, their employees and families. 

On behalf of SIBA I’d like to congratulate him on being awarded a much-deserved MBE in this year’s New Year’s Honours.” 

Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive.

Without immediate support community pubs face significant and growing costs which ratchet up over three years, with an average pub seeing a 76% increase in Business Rates. In comparison, warehouses operated by online tech giants will only pay 16% more.

The vast majority of beer from independent breweries is sold in local community pubs with many also operating their own pubs and taprooms. Some independent breweries have found their rateable values increasing 300% and facing new costs they will struggle to absorb.

Industry research published today (12 December 2025) suggests that a pub specific relief at 30% from 1 April 2026 could protect around 15,000 jobs now under threat in the pubs sector and prevent widespread closures.

This call for pub support follows an open letter sent last week from SIBA’s Board expressing its deep concern at the impact of the Business Rates decision on the hospitality sector.

“The last orders bell is ringing very loudly in our community pubs after the shock changes to Business Rates in the Budget” commented Andy Slee, Chief Executive of SIBA. “Publicans and brewers feel badly let down by a system that still isn’t fairly addressing the imbalance between big Global tech companies and small business owners.

“We were promised proper reform of Business Rates in the Labour manifesto last year and a rebalancing of the tax regime but this has not been delivered. Pubs therefore need urgent help to address the planned increase in costs through a pub specific relief and then we must introduce full and meaningful reform.”

Further Information

The BBPA press release on pub specific relief can be found here – https://www.beerguild.co.uk/news/british-beer-and-pub-association-demands-pub-specific-relief-to-save-britain-s-beloved-locals-and-th

The SIBA Board letter to the Chancellor can be found here- https://www.siba.co.uk/2025/12/04/independent-brewers-issue-open-letter-to-the-chancellor-to-express-deep-concern-at-the-impact-of-last-weeks-business-rates-decisions-on-the-hospitality-sector/

Some good news for those looking for the perfect gift for the beer lover in your life, as the best beers in Scotland have been revealed just in time for Christmas. 

The results of the UK’s biggest judging of beers from independent breweries are in, with a range of Scottish breweries taking home silverware with Bronze, Silver, Gold and ‘Category Champion’ awards being given in a broad range of beer style catgeories.

The Indie Beer Awards are organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) and judged by expert beer judges, beer sommeliers, master brewers, and beer industry professionals – with medals awarded to beers for their appearance, aroma, flavour and overall quality. SIBA Head of Comms & Marketing Neil Walker, who is also a Beer Sommelier, ran the judging and had this to say on this year’s winners;

“The Indie Beer Awards name the very best beers in a wide range of categories; from modern pale ales, lagers and IPAs, to traditional stouts, porters and bitters, as well as speciality and international-styles. All the beers in the competition come from genuine independent breweries and medals are only awarded to beers of the very highest quality – with Category Champions being the very best of best, and a ‘must buy’ for the beer lover in your life. So with Christmas just around the corner why not support local and buy a champion independent beer this festive season.” 

All of the winners from the Indie Beer Awards will now go forwards to the UK Finals early next year in Liverpool.

Scottish Winners

Regional Winners & Combined Results: Click here 

Some good news for those looking for the perfect gift for the beer lover in your life, as the best beers in the North East have been revealed just in time for Christmas. 

The results of the UK’s biggest judging of beers from independent breweries are in, with a number of North East breweries taking home silverware with Bronze, Silver, Gold and ‘Category Champion’ awards being given in a broad range of beer style catgeories.

The Indie Beer Awards are organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) and judged by expert beer judges, beer sommeliers, master brewers, and beer industry professionals – with medals awarded to beers for their appearance, aroma, flavour and overall quality. SIBA Head of Comms & Marketing Neil Walker, who is also a Beer Sommelier, ran the judging and had this to say on this year’s winners;

“The Indie Beer Awards name the very best beers in a wide range of categories; from modern pale ales, lagers and IPAs, to traditional stouts, porters and bitters, as well as speciality and international-styles. All the beers in the competition come from genuine independent breweries and medals are only awarded to beers of the very highest quality – with Category Champions being the very best of best, and a ‘must buy’ for the beer lover in your life. So with Christmas just around the corner why not support local and buy a champion independent beer this festive season.” 

All of the winners from the Indie Beer Awards will now go forwards to the UK Finals early next year in Liverpool.

North East Winners

Regional Winners & Combined Results: Click here 

Some good news for those looking for the perfect gift for the beer lover in your life, as the best beers in the North East have been revealed just in time for Christmas. 

The results of the UK’s biggest judging of beers from independent breweries are in, with a number of North West breweries taking home silverware with Bronze, Silver, Gold and ‘Category Champion’ awards being given in a broad range of beer style catgeories.

The Indie Beer Awards are organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) and judged by expert beer judges, beer sommeliers, master brewers, and beer industry professionals – with medals awarded to beers for their appearance, aroma, flavour and overall quality. SIBA Head of Comms & Marketing Neil Walker, who is also a Beer Sommelier, ran the judging and had this to say on this year’s winners;

“The Indie Beer Awards name the very best beers in a wide range of categories; from modern pale ales, lagers and IPAs, to traditional stouts, porters and bitters, as well as speciality and international-styles. All the beers in the competition come from genuine independent breweries and medals are only awarded to beers of the very highest quality – with Category Champions being the very best of best, and a ‘must buy’ for the beer lover in your life. So with Christmas just around the corner why not support local and buy a champion independent beer this festive season.” 

All of the winners from the Indie Beer Awards will now go forwards to the UK Finals early next year in Liverpool.

North West Winners

Regional Winners & Combined Results: Click here 

Some good news for those looking for the perfect gift for the beer lover in your life, as the best beers in the East have been revealed just in time for Christmas. 

The results of the UK’s biggest judging of beers from independent breweries are in, with a number of East breweries taking home silverware with Bronze, Silver, Gold and ‘Category Champion’ awards being given in a broad range of beer style catgeories.

The Indie Beer Awards are organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) and judged by expert beer judges, beer sommeliers, master brewers, and beer industry professionals – with medals awarded to beers for their appearance, aroma, flavour and overall quality. SIBA Head of Comms & Marketing Neil Walker, who is also a Beer Sommelier, ran the judging and had this to say on this year’s winners;

“The Indie Beer Awards name the very best beers in a wide range of categories; from modern pale ales, lagers and IPAs, to traditional stouts, porters and bitters, as well as speciality and international-styles. All the beers in the competition come from genuine independent breweries and medals are only awarded to beers of the very highest quality – with Category Champions being the very best of best, and a ‘must buy’ for the beer lover in your life. So with Christmas just around the corner why not support local and buy a champion independent beer this festive season.” 

All of the winners from the Indie Beer Awards will now go forwards to the UK Finals early next year in Liverpool.

East Winners

All Regional Winners & Combined Results: Click here 

Some good news for those looking for the perfect gift for the beer lover in your life, as the best beers in the Midlands & West have been revealed just in time for Christmas. 

The results of the UK’s biggest judging of beers from independent breweries are in, with a number of Midlands & West breweries taking home silverware with Bronze, Silver, Gold and ‘Category Champion’ awards being given in a broad range of beer style catgeories.

The Indie Beer Awards are organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) and judged by expert beer judges, beer sommeliers, master brewers, and beer industry professionals – with medals awarded to beers for their appearance, aroma, flavour and overall quality. SIBA Head of Comms & Marketing Neil Walker, who is also a Beer Sommelier, ran the judging and had this to say on this year’s winners;

“The Indie Beer Awards name the very best beers in a wide range of categories; from modern pale ales, lagers and IPAs, to traditional stouts, porters and bitters, as well as speciality and international-styles. All the beers in the competition come from genuine independent breweries and medals are only awarded to beers of the very highest quality – with Category Champions being the very best of best, and a ‘must buy’ for the beer lover in your life. So with Christmas just around the corner why not support local and buy a champion independent beer this festive season.” 

All of the winners from the Indie Beer Awards will now go forwards to the UK Finals early next year in Liverpool.

Midlands & West Winners

All Regional Winners & Combined Results: Click here 

Some good news for those looking for the perfect gift for the beer lover in your life, as the best beers in Wales have been revealed just in time for Christmas. 

The results of the UK’s biggest judging of beers from independent breweries are in, with a number of Welsh breweries taking home silverware with Bronze, Silver, Gold and ‘Category Champion’ awards being given in a broad range of beer style catgeories.

The Indie Beer Awards are organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) and judged by expert beer judges, beer sommeliers, master brewers, and beer industry professionals – with medals awarded to beers for their appearance, aroma, flavour and overall quality. SIBA Head of Comms & Marketing Neil Walker, who is also a Beer Sommelier, ran the judging and had this to say on this year’s winners;

“The Indie Beer Awards name the very best beers in a wide range of categories; from modern pale ales, lagers and IPAs, to traditional stouts, porters and bitters, as well as speciality and international-styles. All the beers in the competition come from genuine independent breweries and medals are only awarded to beers of the very highest quality – with Category Champions being the very best of best, and a ‘must buy’ for the beer lover in your life. So with Christmas just around the corner why not support local and buy a champion independent beer this festive season.” 

All of the winners from the Indie Beer Awards will now go forwards to the UK Finals early next year in Liverpool.

Welsh Winners

All Winners & Combined Results: Click here 

Some good news for those looking for the perfect gift for the beer lover in your life, as the best beers in the South East have been revealed just in time for Christmas. 

The results of the UK’s biggest judging of beers from independent breweries are in, with a number of South East breweries taking home silverware with Bronze, Silver, Gold and ‘Category Champion’ awards being given in a broad range of beer style catgeories.

The Indie Beer Awards are organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) and judged by expert beer judges, beer sommeliers, master brewers, and beer industry professionals – with medals awarded to beers for their appearance, aroma, flavour and overall quality. SIBA Head of Comms & Marketing Neil Walker, who is also a Beer Sommelier, ran the judging and had this to say on this year’s winners;

“The Indie Beer Awards name the very best beers in a wide range of categories; from modern pale ales, lagers and IPAs, to traditional stouts, porters and bitters, as well as speciality and international-styles. All the beers in the competition come from genuine independent breweries and medals are only awarded to beers of the very highest quality – with Category Champions being the very best of best, and a ‘must buy’ for the beer lover in your life. So with Christmas just around the corner why not support local and buy a champion independent beer this festive season.” 

All of the winners from the Indie Beer Awards will now go forwards to the UK Finals early next year in Liverpool.

South East Winners