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So we& #39;ve had a bit of fun today, but unfortunately, there are some serious stories unfolding here of increasing threats to independent businesses in our industry. (Thread)
Our customers, friends and business partners have had an incredibly hard time over the past 14 months as we all know. Siren has done, and will continue to do as much as we can to support the people who have been the major backbone of our little business for 8 years now.
So we want to bring your attention to activities not only of Lion, but of Heineken ( @Heineken / @heinekenUK_News ), the owners of brands we all know like @beavertownbeer, @lagunitasbeer and @BrixtonBrewery.
Heineken, having purchased the lease from a company that were landlords of a @thecraftbeerco site, is offering them zero support on rent due to their free-of-tie status. This is a stark contrast to the more reasonable approach taken with their tenanted sites.
Effectively this now forces the Craft Beer Co site to close unless they pay all outstanding rent immediately OR predominately stock Heineken-owned beers going forward. Despite years of benefit to Heineken from the relationship.
This is clearly a cynical attempt by a big brewer to use the pandemic and their size to cut choice for the consumer and pursue their own agenda. It& #39;s pretty ugly. We have witnessed weight and resources being thrown around to oust independents before, but this is a low point.
What can you do about it? You could contact Heineken and let them know what you think. You could also support @Thecraftbeerco through its open venues. You could also vote with your feet and choose to drink independently brewed pints over brands controlled by brewing juggernauts.
As hospitality and pubs start to open our collective focus is on delivering fantastic service and products to you, it& #39;s going to be tough enough without these kind of distractions. But all independent businesses are also in a fight for choice, and we& #39;d appreciate your support.
End of thread. Thanks all, have a great bank holiday weekend and of course, enjoy your well-deserved pints! Cheers.
