Asda to be top craft seller Asda has announced that it is expanding its craft beer offering, a move which will set the retailer on the path to being the UK’s biggest craft beer retailer. Over 100 new craft beers are to become available nationwide, building on the 40 additional lines already added in 2017. Up to 10% of the existing beer space will be dedicated to craft beer in-store. Further innovation will be provided to Asda’s customers by supporting small local breweries, while helping to introduce more regional beers to areas outside of their locale and raising their profile with previously untapped audiences. As well as championing craft beer to new markets, Asda has also ensured its range is well-received by craft drinkers, by appointing an Ale and Craft Beer Buyer - Hywel Evans - to focus on the category. US exports to UK growing The Brewers Association (BA) has announced 2016 export figures for the American craft beer industry. Into the UK, American craft beer imports grew by 4.4 percent in volume during the year. The UK is the second largest export market for American craft beer and accounts for 10.1% of all exports behind Canada with 54.8 percent. There are now more small and independent breweries in the States than ever, with the number of operating breweries growing 16% in 2016 to reach 5,301 breweries in total. UK breweries are welcome to use the wealth of free resources available to download at www.brewersassociation.org regarding brewing tips and advice including: • Best Practices Guide to Quality Craft Beer to help encourage better handling and storage of US craft beer amongst trading partners. • Brewers Association Draught Beer Quality for Retailers helps retailers learn to consistently pour great beer and preserve profits through industry accepted best practices. • The DraughtQuality.org website is a resource for draught installers, wholesalers, retailers and brewers. 36 BREWING & BEVERAGE INDUSTRIES BUSINESS News MARKETS & EVENTS The next issue of will be published in SEPTEMBER 2017 Featuring Showcase ON THE BAR Showcase BUSINESS SERVICES Showcase GLASSWARE Showcase SMALLPACK EQUIPMENT Drinks fonts, taps, beer engines, pump clips & lens, and also bar runners, anything on the bar! Insurance, financial and legal services, recruitment, business training and other business services. Glassware - branded or unbranded - for the retail market. Inc. promotional glassware. New and pre-owned bottling & canning equipment available in the UK. Companies that will install your equipment and work with you in commissioning and initial production. EDITORIAL DEADLINE : Thursday 3rd August ADVERTISING ARTWORK: Tuesday 8th August Beer Day Britain back! Beer Day Britain, a national four-day festival of beer linking Beer Day Britain on 15th June with Father's Day on 18th June, will involve more brewers and pubs getting than ever before. www.beerforthat.com For more information visit: 36_Layout 1 17/05/2017 10:46 Page 1