CAMRA backs SIBA initiative as new poll reveals majority of consumers prefer to drink independent

09-Aug-2018 - Last updated on 09-Aug-2018 at 11:00 GMT

On display: SIBA's independent seal will be visible on festival banners at GBBF this week

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has lent its support to The Society of Independent Brewers’ (SIBA’s) assured independent ‘seal’, after a new poll from YouGov revealed that majority of real ale consumers value independently owned breweries.

Nearly three out of four (74%) ale drinkers who expressed an opinion said that they were concerned that small independent breweries were being bought by larger multinational drinks companies in the UK, according to the research.

The respondents expressed further concern that breweries that have been bought out were still being marketed with the same branding from when they were independent, regardless of the change in ownership.

Independent seal

In light of this, CAMRA will be teaming with SIBA to ensure that attendees at this year’s Great British Beer Festival (GBBF) know which beers have been brewed by independent craft brewers. The organisation’s assured ‘seal’ will appear on festival bar banners next to truly independent craft brewers, as well as in the event guide’s tasting notes.

GBBF organiser Catherine Tonry said: “The Great British Beer Festival has remained incredibly popular for more than 40 years, with 50,000 visitors coming through our doors each summer. The reason for our enduring popularity is that you can try nearly a thousand different ‘local’ beers from across the UK and abroad all under one roof.

“One of the delights of beer appreciation is the unexpected alchemy that comes from the skill and creative input of individual brewers, which is why local, artisan brews have sustained popularity over the years. We are pleased to work with SIBA to ensure consumers get as much information as possible about their beers at this year’s festival.”

Champion Beer announced

SIBA chief executive Mike Benner adds: "Beer drinkers want to know the brew in their glass has been made by a truly independent craft brewer and SIBA is delighted to see CAMRA backing the 'Assured Independent British Craft Brewer initiative at their flagship event and the UK's biggest beer festival.

“Festival-goers are in for a treat this year, with an amazing selection of beers on offer across the event and wherever you see the 'assured' seal you can be sure you're drinking a beer from a truly independent craft brewer."

Berkshire brewery Siren Craft Brew took home the title of Champion Beer of Britain at this year’s GBBF with its 6.5% ABV Broken Dream stout.

The beer saw off competition from Mordue Brewery and Green Jack Brewery to take home the overall prize.