Responding to the Chancellor’s announcement of further support for businesses under Tier 2 and 3 restrictions, the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) said British breweries are ‘part of the fabric of hospitality’ and must be included in Government measures.
James Calder, SIBA's Chief Executive, commented, “Today’s extension of the JSS scheme announced by the Chancellor will help retain jobs in pubs and bars over this incredibly difficult winter period.
'Separately, the Chancellor’s announcement that Government will offer grants for hospitality businesses struggling under Tier 2 restrictions is very welcome.
'But the fact that small breweries are not automatically eligible is a hammer blow. Small breweries are part of the fabric of hospitality and Government should make all breweries automatically eligible for the £2,100 grants and JSS support as the rest of hospitality. Breweries who employ skilled people should not left at the mercy of discretionary grants which many didn’t get last time around.
'With breweries currently closing at an alarming rate across the UK time is running out for Government to step in and save the British pint, before it’s too late.”
