Independent brewers cheer Chancellor’s extension of draught beer duty rate
“Small independent brewers will be cheering the new Chancellor today with the announcement that he’s listened to our concerns and included the 20 and 30 litre containers used by independent brewers in the new draught duty. Our Make it 20 campaign received cross-party support and the change will have a huge impact on the ability of small brewers to benefit from the duty discount. It is also very welcome to see the Chancellor freezing alcohol duty rates from February 2023, providing additional support to a struggling sector.
Delaying the introduction of the draught duty rate until next summer, as opposed to February as originally planned will however come as a disappointment to many small brewers who have already factored these changes into their business plans for next year. Combining the successful Small Breweries’ Relief which is 20 years old this year with Small Producer Relief is very complex and there will inevitably be winners and losers, especially hitting those brewers making innovative stronger products like Imperial Stouts above 8.5%. We look forward to working with the new Exchequer Secretary and Chancellor to get the details right on these changes and ensure that we continue to have a vibrant, dynamic small brewing sector fit for the future.” Roy Allkin, SIBA Chairman
