A survey conducted by Vocation Brewery found almost four in five people (79%) agree a wider range on tap would make them visit their local more often. Nearly three in four (74%) feel major brewers are overrepresented in pubs.
It also found eight in 10 respondents (81%) would be willing to pay slightly more for a pint if it meant greater variety.
The Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) said approximately a third of customers regularly choose local independent beers when at the pub, but this is not reflected in the number of taps currently occupied by independent beers.
High demand
SIBA head of communications Neil Walker said: “We know there’s a really high demand for beer from independent breweries, but the issue is route to market and access.
“We are still waiting on the Government to publish their access to market review which pledged to help increase the access to market for small brewers in pubs.”
Walker added around 80% of beer produced by SIBA members is sold through pubs, but warned the recent budget’s hike on business rates and lack of draft duty relief could have a knock on effect for both publicans and independent brewers.
The audit also found 25 to 34 year olds showed the strongest interest in trying new beers, with 44% of the group saying they’d visit more if they could try novel and distinctive brews.
Walker added younger consumers are most conscious about supporting independent breweries.
Mobile pub
SIBA’s Indie Beer campaign, launched just over a year ago, is aimed at helping consumers identify beer from independent breweries in pubs, bars and shops.
Approximately a third (33%) of those aged 18 to 24 were aware of the Indie Beer campaign, compared to just 10% of all consumers.
To accompany the audit, Vocation Brewery has launched the Wandering Inn - a 5ft5 mobile pub last week, which made its debut in Manchester and will go on to tour locations nationwide throughout 2026.
Vocation Brewery chair and CEO Gail Lumsden said: “The findings show Britain’s beer lovers want more choice, more flavour, more adventure.
“Beer should be an experience - something that engages you, stays with you and invites you back.”
The travelling tavern will serve bold pours across the nation, celebrating Britain’s love for flavourful brews and rallying support for local pubs.
