In the United Kingdom, a pair of unconventional brew masters have become very successful in the non-alcoholic craft beer industry with their Drop Bear Beer Company and unique approaches to stouts, lagers, and pale ales.
Joelle Drummond and her wife Sarah, based in Swansea, Wales, are challenging the typical image of craft beer creators, from the drinks they make to how they manage their business, and even the appearance people expect from British brew-masters.
Drummond mentioned, “I think based on my research, we are actually the first LGBTQ+ alcohol-free brewery in the world.” Pink News.
Starting in 2019, the couple brewed their first beer at home and were determined to uphold their values as they established Drop Bear, which is sold across the U.K., Canada, and New Zealand.
Drummond stated, “I’ve been consistently looking for ways to make a significant impact through dialogue, visibility, and awareness.”
As part of this effort, they are committed to hiring LGBTQ+ staff in an industry not traditionally associated with them; half of the Drop Bear team is queer.
The company also collaborates with the charity Galop, which assists LGBTQ+ victims. Profits from this year’s special Pride beer will go to the organization.
Drop Bear has achieved several milestones, including being recognized as Wales’ first certified B-corp brewery (given to companies meeting high social and environmental standards) and the world’s first carbon-neutral alcohol-free brewery, as per Drummond.
Their products are also suitable for vegans and are gluten-free.
According to Drummond, the company’s success lies in tapping into the “sober-curious” trend, which sees younger generations and Gen Z more open to avoiding alcohol in social settings.
Drummond commented, “We are focused on offering a great craft beer option without lecturing people about their drinking habits, for those who choose not to drink or want to reduce their consumption.”
Some popular choices from their selection are Bonfire Stout, Tropical IPA, Yuzu Pale Ale, and New World Lager.
Drummond believes that their innovative non-alcoholic brews, among the offerings from over 1,700 microbreweries in the U.K., are only as good as the company’s dedication to their values and representation.
For Drummond, it is very important that queer women have visibility in leadership positions, more than people realize.
