T&R Theakston and Swinkels UK, a subsidiary of Netherlands-based Royal Swinkels, have announced an on-trade sales partnership.
Front row: Gijs Swinkels, chief commercial officer at Royal Swinkels; and Simon Theakston, chairman of T&R Theakston. Back row (left to right): William Theakston, channel development manager at Theakston; Simon Holland, Royal Swinkels’ UK general manager; Richard Bradbury, managing director of Theakston; and Huub in der Rieden, managing director, export, at Royal Swinkels
Bringing together more than 500 years of combined brewing heritage, the collaboration will enhance national coverage and offer UK pubs, bars, and operators a broader, complementary portfolio of world-class beers.
From 3rd November, Theakston will represent Swinkels’ portfolio in the UK on-trade, driving strategic development and expanding reach across both free trade and national accounts.
Theakston’s established cask and keg range — including much-loved beers such as Old Peculier and Theakston Best Bitter — will be joined by Swinkels’ distinctive brands. These include: fast-growing Belgian fruit beer Fruitage, by Rodenbach; global pilsner Bavaria; La Trappe Trappist beers; and cult favourite Uiltje Brewing, known in the UK for Juicy Lucy NEIPA.
“We are delighted to partner with Theakston Brewery, a name that carries immense trust and respect in the UK beer trade,” said Gijs Swinkels.
“As two independent, family-run brewers, we share the same approach to quality, service, and long-term commitment. Together we will strengthen our UK presence and deliver more value to customers.”
Simon Theakston, chairman of T&R Theakston, added: “We are excited to be working with Swinkels — a global brewer that, like us, is rooted in family ownership and long-term thinking. Our portfolios perfectly complement each other, and this partnership enables us to offer a broader, more diverse selection to our customers while growing our national footprint together.”
