Optimistic outlook from family brewers

January 3, 2006: The family owned brewing companies who have been brewing cask ale for generations are a unique and valued sector of the beer market that should be protected and championed, according to a review undertaken by the Independent Family Brewers of Britain (IFBB).

The organisation recently completed a review of its members’ interests and the wider beer market to assess its future role and remit. In light of the findings, the IFBB has refocused its efforts to ensure it is well placed to face the business challenges presented, is able to effectively champion the unique role played by its members in the brewing industry, and to reflect the key position its members play in representing the industry on key issues within local geographies.

Anthony Fuller, chairman of Fuller Smith and Turner plc, has stepped down as Chairman of the group, moving to a new role of vice-president with the Brewers of Europe. Tim Bonham has taken his place; however, there is some question as to whether Mr Bonham will actually take up the role following his decision to step down from the board of Hardys & Hansons last month.

Upon his appointment, Mr Bonham said: “Over recent years, we have seen changing pressures on small brewers, who are operating in an increasingly competitive market and plagued by additional cost burdens - as demonstrated by the loss of at least four family owned independent brewers in the last year, bought by major brewing companies.

“In light of this, it is now more important than ever that the IFBB and its members have a voice.

“We will be refocusing our efforts to respond to the immense changes we have seen in the industry. In future, the IFBB will become an issues-led organisation which will work to promote the long term interests of the independent British regional brewing companies.

“The recent review was the first such project undertaken since the IFBB was formed in 1993. Through all the changes our membership has remained strong and united in its purpose. However, it is important that the IFBB continues to adapt to ensure the interests of its members are supported - evolution rather than revolution.”

Scott Waddington, chief executive of independent family brewers SA Brain, based in Cardiff, has also stepped forward to lead the IFBB PR committee, taking over from Young's chief executive Stephen Goodyear, and is tasked with implementing the new IFBB strategy to focus on pro-active communications and lobbying.

To strengthen this shift in purpose a specialist public affairs consultant, Meriel Thorne, has been also appointed to IFBB to ensure its brewers are aware of issues arising within Westminster and to assist in promoting the IFBB message to Members of Parliament and other key opinion formers.

“The appointment will ensure we are better placed as an organisation to respond and input to changes taking place, and will allow us to become more responsive," said Mr Bonham.

Issues to be addressed by IFBB over the coming months will include representing its members’ interests in current debates about the smoking ban and alcohol-related disorder.

The IFBB is due to launch its own vision document in 2006, to coincide with a Parliamentary reception during late spring. The organisation’s annual report will be published this month and it anticipates that a positive response to its joint application with CAMRA for Traditional Speciality Guaranteed status for cask beer will also be granted next year.