The Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) has launched its 2026 Business Awards, with two new categories for brewing industry individual newcomer of the year and independent beer champion of the year.
The awards seek to congratulate excellence in the brewing industry across a variety of categories, from pumpclip, can, and bottle design, to efforts taken by brewers to make their business more sustainable, innovative, or diverse. They also recognise the UK’s best pubs, bars, and retailers of beer from independent breweries.
The brewing industry individual newcomer of the year award will honour an individual who, having joined the independent brewing industry in the last 12 months, has made a significant and positive impact. This could be on the business, organisation, or association they have joined, or on the broader brewing industry over the last year.
The independent beer champion of the year award seeks to highlight the beer industry individual who has had a hugely positive influence on independent beer over the last 12 months. This could be an individual who has delivered positive change or opportunities for independent brewers, championed a new industry cause, helped to create a more inclusive or diverse industry, or helped to shine a light on the sector in an impactful or innovative way. Nominations can be made by anyone working in the independent beer industry, with the winner then voted for by SIBA members.
“The SIBA Business Awards celebrate the very best of the British brewing industry and shine a light on all of the elements of running a successful business, which go well beyond simply brewing great beer,” said Neil Walker, head of communications and marketing at SIBA.
“As a judging panel we are looking for businesses who have gone beyond the norm and done something truly special, innovative, or impactful. The two new categories seek to recognise individuals from the beer and brewing industry who are pushing us all towards an even brighter future for independent beer.”
For more information about the awards, click here.
