Caledonian first to apply for new SIBA status

The Caledonian Brewery has become the first brewer to apply for associate membership of the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA), following changes to its membership rules.

The motion to limit full membership to brewers who produce less than 200,000 hectolitres was passed at last week's AGM.

It meant that Fuller's, Shepherd Neame and Marston's will no longer have voting rights but they can apply for associate membership.

"We are applying to join SIBA because we see exciting opportunities to work with other member brewers in pursuit of a bright future for British beer," said Caledonian managing director Stephen Crawley.

"From our perspective, the clarification of SIBA membership status is welcome and will enable larger brewers like us to become part of this thriving organisation, without any ambiguity about our role within it."

Julian Grocock, SIBA chief executive, added: "We are delighted to accept Caledonian back into the SIBA fold as an associate member. Its ongoing commitment to quality beer, which has seen them lead the cask ale revival in Scotland, will be a tremendous asset to our organisation."