The Campaign for Real Ale is calling for government aid for brewers following a spate of bad news stories for the industry.
“To hear that Elland Brewery is facing liquidation just six months after their 1872 Porter was crowned CAMRA’s Champion Beer of Britain 2023 is a major cause for concern,” said CAMRA chairman Nik Antona.
“This, coupled with the reports that Adnams has been working with a management consultancy to explore options to shore up its finances — including the possibility of an injection of private capital — is a one-two punch at the heart of the UK brewing industry.”
The news raises the issue of fair competition, access to market, and consumer choice, says CAMRA. With the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) and the Independent Family Brewers of Britain (IFBB), it is calling on the government to increase draught relief to 20% from its current figure of 9.2% in the chancellor’s upcoming Budget.
“Cutting tax specifically on draught beer and cider in pubs would encourage people to support their community local and help secure jobs and businesses in the pub and beer sector, particularly small and independent breweries that sell more of their products into pubs and taprooms.
“CAMRA is encouraging everyone to email their MPs, asking them to support the ‘Make it 20%’ campaign and call on the government to show their support for pubs, social clubs, breweries and cider producers.”
