Scale of Sheffield's independent alcohol economy revealed, as city's artisans turn away from 'craft' label

• An estimated 42% of Sheffield's specialist alcohol producers and retailers claim 'independent' status, according to a new University of Sheffield study

• Many in the sector are turning away from the ‘craft’ label -- which is seen as co-opted by large corporations - in favour of 'independent,' a term that’s believed better captures the ethos of quality over quantity, responsible consumption and its connection to heritage

• The report recommends forming a ‘Sheffield Indy Drinks’ hub to give the sector a unified voice, allowing it to promote its unique heritage and secure support beyond its economic potential

A new report has revealed the impressive scale of Sheffield’s independent drinks scene, estimating that 42% of its specialised alcohol outlets are independently owned or operated. The University of Sheffield study also shows that the city's vibrant alcohol sector is actively embracing the label of 'independent' over 'craft', which many believe to have been co-opted by large multinational corporations.

The result of a year-long project studying the city’s independent alcohol sector, the report suggests the high proportion of independently owned drinking outlets is a direct reflection of Sheffield's unique history as a city of distinct, interconnected neighbourhoods. 

Unlike many cities that developed from a single focal point, Sheffield evolved as a collection of distinct townships and neighbourhoods that came together to form the city we see today. The report found that these diverse neighbourhoods with distinct histories and characteristics are reflected in the way independent drinking outlets - from breweries to pubs and retailers - continue to spring up and flourish across the city.

Researchers found a strong preference for the label ‘independent’, which better captures the small-scale autonomous ethos connected to Sheffield’s heritage, artisanship and community. This mirrors the language of groups like the Society for Independent Brewers (SIBA), which is campaigning to improve consumer awareness about the distinction between truly independent and so-called craft labels

The new report echoes some of the findings of a 2024 report that saw the city retain its status as the real ale capital of the world, with a thriving brewing industry driving tourism and regeneration across Sheffield.

The University of Sheffield’s Professor Phil Withington, co-author of the report with Research Associate Dr Nick Groat, said: “Sheffield's independent drinks scene, built by a network of neighbourhood artisans, is driven by an ethos of quality over quantity - a philosophy in stark contrast to big corporations whose focus is on maximising profit.

“The rejection of the label of craft - a notoriously slippery and contested concept - in favour of independent is one of the many ways this ethos is manifested.

“Our findings suggest that embracing this independent spirit and connection to the city’s heritage as a city of makers offer a unique opportunity for Sheffield to form a collective body, market its unique drinking heritage and lead a conversation around alcohol responsibility and community.”

The researchers surveyed 464 alcohol retailers and outlets between 2024 and 2025 to establish that an estimated 42% were independently owned and/or operated. While further research is required, the team's work paves the way for other cities across the UK and beyond to apply a similar methodology, establishing a benchmark for comparison against Sheffield’s high proportion of independents

Key recommendations:

• Embrace the word Independent: This term better captures the ethos of quality, community, and heritage that defines the sector.

• Form a collective body: Provisionally called "Sheffield Indy Drinks," this group would give the sector a unified voice to raise its profile, work with local authorities, and engage with shared challenges and opportunities.

• Promote Sheffield's unique heritage: The sector can celebrate the city's identity as a collection of vibrant neighbourhoods, creating a brand that's as unique as Sheffield itself. Think of it like a local version of Belgian beer culture or French wine regions.

• Strengthen partnerships with local authorities: The city should recognise the independent drinks sector not just for its economic potential, but also for its commitment to sustainability and ‘better’ more responsible consumption, making it a valuable partner in shaping Sheffield’s future.

The year-long project was conducted with partners including Sheffield Archives, Locksley Distilling, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, and Sheffield City Region Growth Hub. The research explored the role of independent alcohol in the city, guided by two questions: How does the sector impact the city? And what are people's real attitudes towards drinking, beyond the messaging of global corporations and public health campaigns?

Over the course of the year, the team commissioned local artists, produced a six-episode podcast series on the history of alcohol, created maps and walking tours of the city’s drinking spots, conducted oral history interviews, and organised business forums in search of answers to the questions.

View the summary

View the report in full 

Ends

The full findings can be explored on the project website: https://sites.google.com/sheffield.ac.uk/place-craft-and-alcohol

Notes to editors

The University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield is a leading Russell Group university, with a world-class reputation, ranked within the Top 100 universities in the world (QS World University Rankings 2026). Over 30,000 students from 150 countries study at Sheffield and in a truly global community, they learn alongside over 1,500 of the world’s leading academics.

Sheffield’s world-shaping research feeds into its excellent education. Students learn at the leading edge of discovery from researchers who are tackling today’s biggest global challenges. 

At its core, Sheffield is a place where independent thinkers can come together in pursuit of a shared ambition. To ask bold questions, push boundaries, and make a difference. This is what makes the University of Sheffield one of the best in the world.

From the first documented use of penicillin as a therapy in 1930, to building Europe’s largest research-led manufacturing cluster, Sheffield’s inventive spirit and top quality research environment sets it apart. 

Current research partners include Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Unilever, AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Siemens and Airbus, as well as many government agencies and charitable foundations.

Sheffield was named University of the Year for Student Experience by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026 and its Students' Union, which is home to more than 350 societies and clubs, has been ranked the best Students’ Union among all UK universities in the National Student Survey (NSS).

Over 300,000 Sheffield alumni from 205 different countries make a significant influence across the world, with six Nobel Prize winners included amongst former staff and students.

To find out more, visit:www.sheffield.ac.uk

Contact

For more information, please contact: Robert Langley, Communications Officer, University of Sheffield, r.p.langley@sheffield.ac.uk (07542393445) or alternatively mediateam@sheffield.ac.uk

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