Regional Studies, Regional Science (Dec 2023)

On the beer wagon: the past, present and future of Celtic craft brewing and its policies

  • Juliette Wilson,
  • Vasco Sanchez Rodrigues,
  • Ciaran Mac an Bhaird,
  • Maryam Lotfi,
  • Maneesh Kumar,
  • Donagh Horgan,
  • Sarah Dodd,
  • Mike Danson

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1080/21681376.2022.2158751
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 10, no. 1
pp. 329 – 346

Abstract

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ABSTRACTThis paper examines the potential of the craft beer sector as a regional development lever. Focusing on three culturally linked but politically distinct small nations, Wales, Scotland and Ireland, it takes a historical journey from the inception of this sector to the present day. Discussion focuses on highlighting the complex interactions between brewing, society, policy and economy. We review current policy and sectoral realities for our Celtic context and propose a grounded and holistic vision of regional craft-brewing policies, particularly around more circular and zero-waste ecosystems.