Craft Republic, in Barry, has been named as the UK’s best independent craft beer bar or pub (city) at the SIBA Business Awards.
SIBA says the award showcases “pubs or bars which have shown an extraordinary commitment to serving the best quality and range of independent beers”.
Owners Claire and Tim Whalley said: “We’re incredibly proud to be named the UK’s best independent craft beer bar (city) by SIBA. Winning this award is wonderful recognition for all the hard work that we, and our fantastic team, put into Craft Republic.
“We were up against bars in Liverpool, Birmingham, and London, so to be bringing the title to South Wales is fantastic.”
Craft Republic is a passion project that was seven years in the planning. The couple, who had no experience in the hospitality industry, left their corporate jobs to pursue the dream of building the bar that they themselves wanted in their home town, putting their life savings into the project.
Opening in August 2020 as part of the Goodsheds development in Barry, Craft Republic has had to deal with the highs and lows of starting a new business in the pandemic, including only being able to operate as a shop at times.
Extensive drinks list
Located in a converted railway goods shed, a short walk from Barry Island, the bar is completely independent and not affiliated to any breweries.
As well as featuring a state-of-the-art direct draw system, pouring 14 lines of craft draught beer and cider, the bar has an extensive wine, cocktail, and spirits list, including Barry Island Rum and Vodka, and their Great Taste award-winner Barry Island Gin which was developed by Claire and Tim.
In addition to being a bar, Craft Republic has a shop and online store holding more than 100 different beers, ciders, wines, and spirits, all from independent producers.
“It’s been a challenging time to open a hospitality business,” said Claire. “The last two years have been a rollercoaster, but we’re lucky to be surrounded by an incredible community in Barry who have supported us through the toughest moments.”
The latest award from SIBA is not the first accolade for the Barry bar. In 2021, it won the best bar category at the Cardiff Life Awards and was a finalist for best retailer. It is also a finalist in the best bar category in the 2022 awards.
