The past year has seen a 20 per cent rise in the number of new trademarks registered in the UK for craft beer brands.
The research, from law firm RPC, shows a record rise of 2,372 new trademarks in 2017, up from 1,983 the previous year.
The popularity of ‘limited edition’ and ‘small batch’ beers has risen to such a degree that more and more breweries are launching additional products lines, with their own trade marks. For example, BrewDog now lists 20 different beers on its website.
Many of the major breweries are also expanding their ranges, both through mergers and acquisitions, but also by launching more products under their own brands. For example, Diageo owned Guinness now produces a range of lagers and pale ales.
As a direct response to consumer demand, supermarkets are also stocking more craft beer ranges this year. Marks & Spencer, for example, now stocks craft beer from UK microbrewers which it labels as its own products, such as Battersea Rye and British Clipper IPA. And Asda announced recently that it would add 100 craft beers to its range.
The significant growth in the craft beer market in the UK follows the boom in the US, where there are now boutique law firms specialising in beer trademarks.
Breweries are increasingly being seen as profitable businesses and attractive acquisition targets. If you are looking to invest in a brewery or microbrewery business, our experts at Beavis Morgan are able to identify and review potential targets on your behalf, as well as undertake due diligence, deal structuring, and advise on efficient tax planning. We are also able to provide a comprehensive range of professional services to help you make the most of your investment.
Contact Paul Ashton or your usual Beavis Morgan Partner for further information about how we can help you secure the right investment opportunity and maximise the potential of your investment.