An Oxfordshire brewer is urging lawmakers to mandate that pubs sell at least one locally brewed beer, a move that could significantly benefit struggling independent breweries.
Anneli Baxter, general manager of Loose Cannon Brewery in Abingdon and regional chairwoman of the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), believes this legal change would provide a lifeline to smaller, local brewers. “It would make a massive difference,” she said, explaining that many pubs are locked into contracts with larger breweries, leaving little room for local producers.
Baxter highlighted that consumers increasingly want to enjoy beers brewed within a 10-mile radius, a request that is often not met due to existing licensing agreements. “In a lot of pubs, people simply can’t get access to local beer,” she said.
She pointed to the situation in Abingdon as an example. “Currently, we can drive past eight pubs before we can make our first delivery,” Baxter said. “If we could deliver even one cask to those pubs, it would significantly boost our sales and improve our efficiency.”
In addition to the economic benefits, Baxter emphasized the environmental advantages of selling more local cask and keg beers. “Cask and keg beer is one of the most sustainable ways to drink because the containers can be reused for years, reducing waste.”
SIBA’s BreweryTracker report shows that 18 breweries have closed across the Midlands, which now includes breweries previously classified under the West of England, since the start of 2024. Notable recent closures include the Wriggly Monkey Brewery in Bicester and the White Horse Brewery in Stanford in the Vale.
Alistair Ross from Oxford Brewery in Horspath described the current climate for independent brewers as “incredibly difficult.” He noted that utility costs have soared by 300%, along with rising expenses for bottling, packaging, and other essentials. “The pubs you’re selling into are equally under pressure,” Ross added, explaining that many pubs now only open in the late afternoon to reduce operating costs.
SIBA held its regional Independent Beer Awards at Oxford Town Hall, coinciding with the 25th Oxford Beer and Cider Festival. Baxter explained that the festival offers a unique opportunity for consumers to sample a variety of beers without the commitment of buying a full pint. “It gives people the chance to try something new,” she said.
A spokesperson for the Department of Business and Trade acknowledged the challenges facing pubs and independent brewers. “We’re working with the Hospitality Sector Council to support small businesses, including reforming business rates to create a more level playing field between high street establishments and online competitors,” they said. The government is also focused on addressing late payments that put additional financial pressure on small businesses.
As the brewing industry faces rising costs and increasing competition, Baxter and other independent brewers hope that a shift in legislation could be the key to sustaining their businesses and preserving local brewing traditions.
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