Web Forum: Strom brew-ing

Sep 23 2009 by Andrew Jackson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

PUB closures around the district is today’s hot topic on our Forum.

Markmyword49 thought the blame was widespread: “As for the closure of pubs generally it’s a combination of factors. Cost of rent, labour, drinks – competition from supermarkets and off licences – healthier lifestyle choices, more choice of entertainment venues and better housing etc.”

“The number of new breweries starting up are like a drop in the ocean compared to the number and variety of both larger breweries and local pubs which used to be on offer, thus the competitive element has gone.

“Most of the micro breweries have managed to get a toe hold in some pubs and good luck to them all, but they provide only a limited selection of beers in comparison to that which used to be available and insufficient competition to worry the conglomerates. Sadly I doubt very much that we will see it recover. The competition and control still rests with the international conglomerates and they have changed their main supply routes from individual pubs to supermarkets and cheap beer shops.’’

Otis knew exactly what the issues were: “The real problems began when the major brewers handed over control from the head brewers to the accountants. When the head brewers were in charge they had to brew a good tasty pint to attract customers or the brewery failed and the other breweries who were competing gained.

“When the accountants began to rule, the basics of the industry changed. They decided what percentage of profit they wanted to make and they introduced continuous production line brewing, as in chemical factories or car production plants.

“The head brewers came under pressure to use cheaper methods and more additives to speed the brewing process up. Instead of competing, breweries were simply bought out and amalgamated under huge international control.

“The result was the death of individual taste and quality, replaced by the take it or leave it push button service and bland and chemicalised products now available.

“Independent breweries are now springing up all over the place and re-introducing hand pulled beers to the public. Whether they can re-establish the pub trade to the heights and popularity it once was is I think doubtful given that once something is both lost and discredited it is a very hard uphill battle.’’