SIBA says consumers prefer local ales

Sales of local ales have risen by 11.9% over the past 12 months to the end of June, according to the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA). The group's Direct Delivery Scheme -- which takes beer straight to pubs, avoiding pub companies' depots -- has recorded a 5.8% increase over the same period. The number of pubs buying beer from SIBA members has increased by 5.7%.
Julian Grocock, SIBA's chief executive, said today (7 August): "Local ales are in growth because they satisfy consumer demand for food and drink with genuine provenance, low food miles and sustainable production.
"Despite the recession, the demand seems to be holding firm and an increasing number of pubs are realising that having at least one local ale on the bar is now a business 'need to do' rather than an optional 'nice to do'."