Brewery closures slow, but the pressure remains
The Brief
SIBA's latest Brewery Tracker shows that the rate of UK brewery closures slowed significantly during the first half of 2026.
Net closures averaged less than one brewery a week between January and June, compared with almost three a week during 2025. The UK recorded a net loss of 16 breweries during the first six months of this year.
SIBA is cautious about calling this a recovery, however, pointing to continuing problems around profitability, taxation, production costs and access to pubs.
Why it matters
Fewer closures are obviously welcome, but survival isn't the same thing as profitability.
For independent breweries, the challenge remains finding a business model that works in an industry where costs are high and access to the on-trade can be difficult.
🎙️ From the pod
Our recent conversation with John Gyngell, founder of North Bar and former owner of North Brewing, provides a particularly relevant first-hand account.
John talks openly about North Brewing's growth, the expansion to the Springwell brewery, COVID, rising costs, administration and the eventual deal with Kirkstall Brewery.
It's the human story behind the sort of statistics contained in the latest Brewery Tracker.
Listen to the episode:
John Gyngell on North Bar, North Brewing & UK Craft Beer
Read the original reporting:
SIBA – UK Brewery closure rate slows but industry struggles not over yet
Martin is the host of The Beer Rep Chats With, a podcast dedicated to exploring the people and stories behind the independent beer industry.
With a background working across the beer sector Martin aims to give listeners a deeper understanding of the challenges, successes and evolving landscape of the independent beer sector. Each episode focuses on the experiences of the people driving the industry forward, offering insights that are valuable for both beer professionals and passionate drinkers alike.
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