Welsh Independent Breweries Defy UK Trend with Growth in 2024
Amidst a challenging year for the UK brewing industry, Welsh independent breweries have emerged as a rare success story, experiencing modest growth while the rest of the country has seen a significant decline in brewery numbers.
According to the latest figures from the SIBA UK Brewery Tracker, the total number of independent breweries in the UK fell from 1,815 at the start of 2024 to 1,715 at the beginning of 2025—a net loss of 100 breweries. The data reveals that every quarter of 2024 saw a negative net closure rate, indicating a struggling sector despite sustained demand for independent beer. However, Wales stood apart as the only region to increase its number of breweries, growing from 96 to 97 over the same period.
SIBA Wales Chair and Head of Marketing at Brains, Sara Webber, emphasized the resilience of the Welsh brewing sector, stating:
“The latest figures show Wales is the only region to increase the number of independent breweries in the UK, bucking national trends and adding a fellow brewer to our fold in the past 12 months.
“While other regions in the UK have experienced a decline in brewery numbers, Wales continues to flourish, reflecting a strong and enduring demand for independent beer. This trend not only highlights the unique character of Welsh brews but also contributes to the local economy and cultural heritage.
“Here at SA Brains, we believe this modest growth highlights the resilience and vibrancy of the Welsh brewing community.
“As a proud member of this community, SA Brains remains committed to supporting and celebrating the rich tapestry of Welsh brewing. We look forward to collaborating with fellow brewers and enthusiasts to ensure that Wales continues to produce innovative and quality-driven beer.”
A Challenging Year for the UK’s Independent Brewers
Across the UK, independent breweries have faced mounting pressures, including legacy COVID debt, increasing operational costs, and limited access to pub distribution. The Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) has highlighted these issues as primary drivers behind the closures.
“The consumer appetite for independent beer is high, and our indications suggest volumes for independent beer at the end of 2024 were up on 2023. The issue for small independent breweries is lack of access to market and rising costs, making it incredibly difficult to remain profitable,” said Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive.
He added that many breweries that closed in the past year cited the inability to secure enough pub placements as a critical factor in their struggles. Slee suggested that a greater emphasis on selling local beer in community pubs could help both breweries and the struggling pub sector alike.
Wales Leading the Way in Independent Brewing
Despite the wider UK downturn, the Welsh brewing industry has remained strong. The country now boasts 97 independent breweries, a slight but significant increase in a year where every other region has reported a net loss.
Comparatively, Northern Ireland saw a net loss of six breweries—a 20% decline—while the South East and Midlands, which have the highest brewery densities, each saw a reduction of 24 breweries.
Although Q4 2024 showed a slowing closure rate (-24 net closures, compared to -38 in Q1), the trend remains concerning for most of the UK. Slee expressed cautious optimism for the industry’s future but emphasized the need for increased government support to prevent further losses.
As 2025 begins, the Welsh independent brewing sector remains a beacon of resilience, demonstrating that quality, heritage, and community support can sustain growth even in difficult times. With local brewers and industry leaders like SA Brains championing the cause, the Welsh beer scene is set to continue thriving against the odds.
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