Guinness has deposited a curated selection of its extensive historical archives within the Arctic World Archive in Svalbard, Norway.
Guinness archivist Eibhlin Colgan, with Rune Bjerkestrand of the Arctic World Archive
As the first Irish brand and first drinks brand to contribute to this secure, permafrost-protected vault, Guinness has preserved its 267-year legacy of brewing, innovation, and cultural and societal impact from 1759 to the present day.
At the heart of the deposit is the belief that Guinness’ legacy lives not only in brewing milestones, but in the people and communities who have made it part of their celebrations.
Curated by Guinness archivist Eibhlin Colgan, the collection offers a comprehensive look at the brand’s rich history, organised into themes of ‘beer’, ‘brand’, and ‘people’.
The ‘people’ pillar spotlights the lived stories behind the pint, capturing how Guinness has shown up in communities, from pioneering employee welfare benefits to community initiatives and cultural moments that have created connection.
The archive includes seminal documents such as innovation patents for the iconic widget, Nitrosurge, and Microdraught technologies; the evolution of the distinctive Guinness harp and early advertising campaigns; and records reflecting the brand’s long-standing role in social and community life.
Irish beer mats campaign, Pints of View, is also included — an invitation for the Guinness community to place their own ‘Lovely Day’ right at the centre, turning everyday moments of togetherness into a shared cultural story.
This step echoes the foresight of Arthur Guinness, who in 1759 signed a 9,000-year lease for the St James’s Gate brewery in Dublin. Now, Guinness’ heritage and cultural impact will be stored in a facility designed to survive for at least 1,000 years.
The Guinness archive, at St James’s Gate, Dublin, collects, preserves, and shares the history of the world’s most famous stout. This deposit into the Arctic World Archive serves as a complementary step in safeguarding these invaluable records.
“Our own Guinness Archive is a treasure trove, meticulously preserving the stories that have shaped our brand for over two and a half centuries,” said Eibhlin. “To see a curated selection of our most vital cultural and societal narratives now immortalised within the Arctic World Archive is an immense honour.
“From the people who brewed it, to the communities who made it theirs, these materials reflect the human stories behind Guinness — moments of connection and ‘Lovely Days’ that deserve to endure.
“It’s a testament to the enduring impact of Guinness that these materials stand alongside the world’s most significant cultural institutions.”
