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Our Independence

The British brewing industry has been decimated in recent decades. However, whilst many famous names have disappeared from the country's bars and shelves, Charles Wells continues to successfully brew and distribute cask ales and quality lager beers.

It is broadly acknowledged that independence protects choice for the consumer. It is no surprise therefore, that although independent brewers accounted for just 6% of total UK beer production in 2005, they produced 35% of the UK's cask ale; over 295 cask conditioned brands! Furthermore, the UK's Independent Brewers own 4,507 pubs and employ over 34,000 people (source: IFBB Annual Report 2005).

The merger of Charles Wells and Young's therefore represents an important step in maintaining the independence of family brewers. The new Wells & Young's brewing company will maintain and continue the traditions of the respective original brands in nurturing a broad portfolio of cask ales and speciality beers, many of which are national favourites.

In his forward to 'Real Cask Beer: a route to success', John Grogan MP, Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group said, "Real cask beer is much more than a remnant of a bygone age slowly working its way off the bar as 'new and improved' products come along. It is, in fact, a staple product of the pub. It's a driver for quality in all aspects of the pub's service. It represents a vibrant and diverse industry."

Charles Wells has been the UK's largest independent brewer for a number of years. The new Wells & Young's Brewing Company will strengthen this position and as such will be committed to acting responsibly to protect this sector and the diversity of quality and choice it brings to consumers.

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