We Are Beer, the organisation behind the London, Bristol, and Manchester Craft Beer Festivals, has unveiled the first wave of speakers for the inaugural We Are Beer Industry Expo & Conference.
The landmark event, at Magazine, London, on 16th and 17th July, will bring together industry leaders to chart the future of the UK beer sector, driving growth and innovation.
With the UK beer market rebounding to £20 billion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, and leading both on-trade volume and value, the industry is primed for expansion.
Following a strong 2024 for major pub operators, experts see 2025 as the moment to seize opportunities and push forward across all premium beer categories.
The We Are Beer Industry Expo & Conference will precede this year’s London Craft Beer Festival, forming Europe’s most significant week for beer professionals. Attendees will gain insight into evolving business models, shifting consumer preferences, sustainability and innovation, and the future of retail over the next five years.
Expert speakers driving the future of beer
Confirmed speakers include:
- Steve Grossman (Sierra Nevada) on building an iconic brand and growing into the world’s largest craft brewery
- Ben Branson (Seedlip, Pollen Projects) on pioneering innovation in drinks
- Miles Jenner (Harvey’s) on lessons from 250 years of independent brewing
- Lorraine Copes (Be Inclusive Hospitality) on the crucial role of diversity in industry growth
Additional speakers represent market-leading brands such as Stone & Wood, Five Points Brewing, Caravan Coffee, Botivo, Maui Brewing, Camden Town, Northern Monk, and Compass Box.
Attendees will also hear directly from major on-trade buyers, including Mitchells & Butlers, Stonegate, and The Beer Company, as well as key figures from the grocery sector.
The two-day event will culminate in the We Are Beer Top 50 Beer Awards, recognising the most outstanding beers and brands leading the way in 2025.
“Good beer is all about community, and this event will bring together the founders and leaders shaping the future of our industry,” said Greg Wells, co-founder of We Are Beer.
“This is a rare opportunity for the beer world’s brightest minds to come together, share insights, and set the course for success. With the conference leading straight into the London Craft Beer Festival, 2025 is set to be a game-changing year for beer.”
Tickets and event details
Tickets go on sale today (6th February) at 10am.
- Two-day conference pass: £150 plus VAT (20% early bird discount available until Thursday, 20th February)
- Expo-only day pass also available
- Tickets: wearebeer.com/industry/expo
