Exploring "Indie Beer": A New Era Beyond "Craft" for the UK Trade

04 November 2024

In the UK beer scene, the familiar term "craft beer" is being replaced by "indie beer." This change, spurred by the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA), aims to help consumers recognise and support truly independent breweries in a market where large global brands often mask themselves as independent. As a true indieourselves, it's essential to understand and embrace this shift, not only to align with consumer values but also to stand out in the competitive landscape.

Many of us have heard of “craft beer,” a term that initially brought to mind small, independent breweries brewing unique, quality beers. However, as the beer market evolved, big corporations caught on to the popularity of the craft beer movement. Now, a growing number of beer enthusiasts and businesses, especially here in the UK, are embracing the term “indie beer” to separate truly independent breweries from those owned by large companies. But what exactly is indie beer, and why is it becoming the preferred term over “craft”?

What Does Indie Beer Really Mean?

Indie beer refers to beers produced by independently owned breweries. Unlike larger corporations that might acquire a brewery and still market it as “craft,” indie breweries are usually smaller, local businesses that focus on quality, authenticity, and community. These breweries are genuinely independent; by supporting them, consumers also support local businesses and their surrounding communities.

The movement toward indie beer is especially important to wholesalers and distributors like Inn Express. We understand that consumers want transparency and seek beer from independent sources. That’s why we proudly identify ourselves as an indie beer supplier and champion the genuine indie breweries we work with.

Wholesale Indie Beer: A Growing Demand for Transparency

In the UK, demand for indie beer is on the rise. Consumers want to know precisely where their beer comes from, which breweries are independent, and how their choice of beer supports local economies. A recent Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) campaign highlights this shift. James Calder, CEO of SIBA, explains, “Drinkers overwhelmingly want to support genuinely independent British breweries, and our job is to help them do just that.”

This push for transparency is crucial at a time when large companies often acquire smaller breweries and continue to market them as “craft.” With wholesale indie beer services like those provided by Inn Express, businesses can confidently source products that are not only high quality but genuinely independent.

Indie Beer Suppliers: Why Indie Matters More than Craft

For years, “craft beer” was the go-to term to describe high-quality, small-batch beers. However, as large corporations have started purchasing smaller breweries and labelling them as “craft,” the term has lost some meaning. Indie beer suppliers, on the other hand, focus on a higher level of transparency. When you purchase from an indie beer supplier, you’re supporting brewers who are passionate about their independence and aren’t under the influence of large, profit-driven corporations.

According to Calder, “As with eggs, meat, wine, and cider, customers should be able to make a clear choice over who produces their beer and where the money they spend goes.” At Inn Express, we couldn’t agree more. While we supply and distribute the world's largest brands, we have a reputation for championing indie breweries and indie producers across our entire portfolio to ensure our clients get genuine products from trusted independent sources.

The Role of Indie Beer Distributors

Working with an indie beer distributor like Inn Express offers several advantages for pubs, bars, and other on-trade establishments in the UK. By sourcing from genuine independent breweries, we ensure that our customers are offering something unique and authentic, which appeals to the growing number of consumers who value transparency in their purchases.

At Inn Express, we’re dedicated to supporting these independent brewers and are proud to bring their products to market. As an indie beer supplier, we believe it’s essential to work with breweries that uphold the values that make independent brewing unique.

Embracing the "Indie" Future

The shift from “craft” to “indie” isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement that speaks to the values of independence, transparency, and community. As more consumers look to support genuinely independent products, the term “indie beer” resonates deeper, especially here in the UK, where supporting local businesses is increasingly valued.

For those in the UK on-trade industry, aligning with wholesale indie beer suppliers like Inn Express is an opportunity to offer customers something exceptional and genuine. Doing so satisfies consumer demand, supports local economies, and promotes authentic, independent breweries.

So, consider going indie next time you’re looking for quality beer to serve. After all, there’s something unique about serving a genuinely independent beer, with a story behind it—and at Inn Express, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit. You can view our extensive range of Indie Beer products here

Want to check if a brewer is "indie"?

Check out the official Indie Brewery Checker here