The Places
Irish Craft Beer Retailers
Although Irish craft beers are increasingly appearing on supermarket and off-licence shelves, as well as in pubs and online shops, some Irish craft breweries continue to face challenges in fully penetrating the mainstream market. As of 2022, craft beer consumption in Ireland accounted for 3.4% of the total beer market, a modest increase from 2.9% in 2017.
This is in contrast to higher market shares in countries like the United States (24%) and the United Kingdom (5%). Despite these challenges, the presence of our craft beers in various retail outlets signifies a positive trend towards greater consumer accessibility and awareness.
Brewery Shops
O Brother Brewing
online shop
obrotherbrewing.com
Porterhouse Brew
online shop
porterhousebrewco.ie
Black Donkey Brewery
online shop
blackdonkeybeer.com
Rascals Brewing
online shop
rascalsbrewing.com
Online Shops
Craft Direct
online shop
craftdirect.ie
The Beer Club
online shop
thebeerclub.ie
Craft Central
online shop
craftcentral.ie
Beer Cloud
online shop
beercloud.ie
Supermarkets
Dunnes Stores
physical & online shop
dunnesstoresgrocery.com
SuperValu
physical & online shop
supervalu.ie
Tesco
physical & online shop
tesco.ie
Aldi
physical shop
aldi.ie
Useful Resources
Check below a shortlist of useful online resources for small businesses like Irish breweries:
Public Liability Insurance – In a litigious society, public liability insurance offers protection against claims of injury or property damage by third parties. Whether you operate a microbrewery, a taproom, or a pub, this insurance type can shield your business from costly legal battles and compensation payouts.
Van Insurance or Fleet Insurance – For businesses relying on vans or commercial vehicles for operations, van insurance in Ireland is indispensable. Whether it’s for transportation, delivery, or logistics, having comprehensive coverage for your commercial vehicles ensures smooth operations and financial security in case of accidents or theft.
Digital Marketing Services – The services provided by a digital marketing agency are crucial for craft breweries as they provide a platform to showcase unique brews, engage with a wider audience, and build brand loyalty through targeted campaigns. By leveraging social media, email marketing, and online advertising, craft breweries can effectively reach beer enthusiasts, drive foot traffic to their taprooms, and increase sales both locally and globally.
Ventilation Systems – Ventilation systems are essential for craft breweries to maintain optimal air quality by removing excess heat, humidity, and airborne contaminants generated during brewing processes, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for workers and preserving the quality of the beer. Proper ventilation also helps prevent the buildup of potentially hazardous gases like carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds, safeguarding both employee health and product integrity. Regular air duct cleaning is recommended every three to five years to prevent the buildup of dust, allergens, and mold, which can compromise air quality and system performance.
Accountancy Services – A good accountancy firm is vital for craft breweries to manage finances efficiently, track expenses, and ensure compliance with tax regulations, allowing them to optimise profitability and avoid potential legal issues. By providing accurate financial insights and strategic guidance, accountancy services enable craft breweries to make informed decisions, streamline operations, and achieve long-term financial stability amidst a competitive market landscape.
Retail Insurance – Retail businesses in Ireland like craft beer taprooms face unique risks, from shoplifting to property damage. Shop or retail insurance provides comprehensive coverage tailored to the specific needs of retail operations, including protection for stock, premises, and liability.
Glassware – Tierneys Gifts, available at tierneysgifts.com, is the go-to destination for Irish craft beer lovers. Specialising in exquisite crystalware, beer glassware, tankards, and other premium barware – some engravable – their collection is perfect for elevating any drinking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a casual enthusiast, Tierneys Gifts offers high-quality products that celebrate the rich tradition of Irish craftsmanship.
Local Hospitality Partnerships – Many hotels and spa resorts in Ireland are embracing the country’s rich craft beer culture by offering unique experiences that combine relaxation with local flavors. For instance, Cabra Castle in County Cavan offers a “Beer Lover Package,” allowing guests to indulge in locally brewed craft beers during their stay. Additionally, several spa hotels, such as Dromoland Castle in County Clare, provide luxurious accommodations where guests can enjoy regional craft beers alongside spa treatments, enhancing their overall experience. This integration of Irish craft beer into hospitality services not only supports local brewers but also enriches the cultural experience for visitors.