Ireland joins European Beer Consumers Union (EBCU)
With Beoir’s admission to the ranks, consumers in 13 European countries are now co-operating to preserve and promote European beer culture. Launched on July 1st, 2010, Beoir is an independent group of consumers seeking greater choice, quality and value-for-money for beer and cider drinkers in Ireland.
“Our primary goal is to support and raise awareness of Ireland’s native independent microbreweries and craft cider-makers”, said Beoir Chairman Séan Billings, “Additionally, Beoir promotes and encourages amateur craft brewing and the making of other fermented beverages. From amateur craft brewing we have even seen new commercial breweries emerge despite the difficult political and economical climate. Joining EBCU proves that the revival of craft brewing and consumer awareness is coming of age.”
The EBCU is a federation of independent national beer consumer organisations across Europe with a combined membership of over 170,000 which represents the views and interests of beer consumers across Europe.
EBCU Chairman Henri Reuchlin added, “The timing of Beoir joining EBCU is immaculate. Ireland will take over the Presidency of the European Union as of January 2013. It is great to see that consumers in a typical beer-drinking country like Ireland are united to promote diversity in choice in beers at a reasonable price. We’re very much looking forward to working with Beoir.
“The European beer market is developing rapidly,” he continued, “New breweries are opening all over Europe and new beers are adding to consumers’ choice.
“Beer has been part of European culture since the dawn of civilisation. More and more consumers realise this thriving heritage. However our beer culture is endangered by a three-fold threat of negligence, short-term monetary considerations (from either the taxman or breweries’ shareholders) and a unilateral focus on irresponsible drinking.
“EBCU, as the voice of the European beer consumer, can play a pivotal role in strengthening the beer culture. After all, the great majority of beer consumers enjoy their beer responsibly.”
