'Beer boom' fuels rise in breweries across the UK

A new brewery is opening up in Britain every other day following a "surge" over the past two years.

The Government said the figures showed Britain was a "Brewing powerhouse", with all parts of the country enjoying a "beer boom".

The trend is boosting the economy, with the beer and pubs sector now responsible for 869,000 jobs.

Community pubs minister Marcus Jones said: "Today's figures show Britain is back on the map as a global Brewing Powerhouse with three breweries opening up every week.

"We gave the world the IPA and the Great British pint has been revered ever since. This brewing boom means we are not only creating some of the world's best beer that we all enjoy in our local pub and at home but also thousands of jobs and a multibillion-pound boost to the economy.

"There is an increasing confidence in the beer and pubs sector with pubs diversifying, community ownership of public houses starting to take off and a booming brewing industry.

"We are determined to build on this momentum and our strategy of lower taxes, less regulation and a growing economy is the best way to support this thriving and diverse sector."

The minister said there had never been a better time to be a beer drinker, with a world class variety of beers brewed in Britain.

Mike Benner, of the Society of Independent Brewers, said: "This is an incredibly exciting time for British craft brewing. The number of breweries is soaring leading to more jobs across the UK and more choice for consumers.

"With such an exciting range of different colours, strengths, styles and flavours, in draught, bottle or can format now available, I'm sure there is a beer out there to suit all palates."

The report was published ahead of Camra's Great British Beer Festival at London's Olympia this week.