Wholesaler Matthew Clark has ramped up its focus on craft beer with a newly-expanded Boutique Beers range.
The 2017 range features 270 beers from 14 different countries, an increase of more than 100 beers from last year’s portfolio.
Matthew Clark said the expanded range reflects sales trends over the past year, when one in every four beers sold by the firm has been either an IPA or pale ale.
The larger range now includes 40 IPAs and 30 pale ales, as well as over 50 lagers and pilsners. There are also said to be more niche styles, such as gose beer.
Matthew Clark has added ten UK breweries to its portfolio, including Edinburgh-based gluten-free brewery Bellfield, Sussex firm Two Tribes and award-winning Welsh brewer Tiny Rebel.
In addition to craft beer, the wholesaler has reported a 14.9% increase in sales of packaged lagers from overseas, as well as a 24% increase in imported draught lagers. Additions to the range include New Zealand brewery the Yeastie Boys.
“Now, more than ever, we’re seeing customers demand a choice of beers wherever they go, whether that’s for Spanish beers in a tapas restaurant, or local beers in every local pub,” said Justin Wylde, category manager for beer, cider and soft drinks at Matthew Clark.
“Nine in ten consumers are interested in learning about different styles of beer, so we want to make it easy for operators to provide a range of options.
“The Boutique Beers brochure offers something for every occasion, for every kind of beer drinker.
“At Matthew Clark we’re also brewing our biggest and best Boutique Beers Festival yet.
“We look forward to introducing press and customers to the new beers and breweries at the festival this summer.”
