As the craft-beer market nears the billion-pound mark, female brewers are reclaiming a craft birthed and led for centuries by women.
Beer throughout the ages has been accepted as a ‘man’s drink’ and the stereotype is statistically validated, 67.1% of male drinkers cite beer as their most popular choice of alcohol according to ONS figures.
The origin of beer is therefore all the more fascinating given the history of brewing is strongly led by women. In Ancient Egypt, beer was almost entirely made and consumed by women, and through till the 18th century, all over the world, women were at the forefront of the craft.
The brewing industry might still be seen by many as a bearded boy’s club, but “brewsters”—the medieval term for a female brewer—have been at its helm for centuries. Until the 15th century, women were brewing and selling the majority of ale for both domestic and commercial use. After the Black Plague, when brewing became more commercialised, it moved firmly into the hands of men.
Thankfully, women are now reclaiming an industry that – by large – was birthed by them. Alongside the boom of the craft beer industry – a £782m revenue generator – a female brewing renaissance is emerging, championed by craft-beer innovators – Brewhouse and Kitchen.
The UK’s largest brewpub chain and the second largest in Europe will host hundreds of women nationwide – including celebrities, prominent figures and local community members – at 19 locations across the country on 8 March for their annual FemALE Brewing Experience Day.
Brewhouse and Kitchen Marketing Manager Gail Bunn says the rise of women in the industry can be credited to the skills it takes along with changing attitudes in society. “Women have greater ability to distinguish between high numbers of aromas and flavours, which is key to success in craft brewing.
“Along with this, beer companies are more aware of the importance of female beer drinkers and women now feel more comfortable to drink beer, attend pubs and contribute to the growth of the industry. We’re seeing this reflected in both our customers base and growth of women participating in our Brewing Academy, which fosters successful careers in brewing.”
Further information
Lauren Gallagher lauren@42bruton.com
07456237671