CAMRA urge Heineken to think again about closure of Edinburgh’s Caledonian Brewery

CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, has hit out at the decision to close Caledonian Brewery – the last major brewery in Edinburgh – saying it is ‘devastating’ news for Scotland’s brewing heritage. 

The brewery first opened in 1869 and has been operated by Heineken since 2008.  

Heineken UK has now announced it is to close the facility, with the potential loss of 30 jobs and Caledonian brands instead being produced under licence at Belhaven brewery in Dunbar.  

Commenting CAMRA Chairman Nik Antona said: 

“This announcement is grim news for Edinburgh and Scotland’s brewing heritage and is part of a pattern of historic breweries, beers and brands being eroded through closures, mergers and lack of promotion in recent years.  

“Years of consolidation of the majority of the brewing industry into the hands of just a few, large international players is to the detriment of Scotland’s brewing history, the diversity of beer in pubs and consumer choice for pub goers and beer drinkers.” 

CAMRA’s Scotland Director Stuart McMahon added: 

“While some brands are due to be brewed under licence at Belhaven, this nonetheless will see Caledonian beers losing their identity and provenance as part of Edinburgh’s brewing history and puts the long-term future of these brands, especially the brewery’s seasonal and special beers, in doubt. 

“That’s why we are calling on Heineken to think again about this devastating closure, enter discussions with all interested parties and find a viable way forward to save this historic site as a brewery.”