Cigar City Brewing, the Tampa, Florida based brewery that is part of the CANarchy collective, is ready to spread its wings in an overseas direction. The brewery has partnered with James Clay, the UK’s leading distributor of craft beer, in a deal that brings its beers to the ever- thirsty residents of Great Britain.
Oskar Blues, another CANarchy member, is already distributed in the UK and Cigar City hopes to build on this success as its kegs and 12 ounce cans of Jai Alai IPA, Maduro Brown Ale, Invasion Tropical Pale Ale, Florida Cracker Belgian style White Ale, and Guayabera Citra Pale Ale make their way across the British isles. Cigar City Brewing’s Neil Callaghan says the addition of the UK to Cigar City’s distribution footprint is the natural next step, given the relationship his brewery has with the British.
“We’re thrilled to bring our Florida-inspired beers to the craft beer enthusiasts of the UK,” said Callaghan. “British beer finds a wonderful balance between innovation and tradition, and we’ve been inspired by the British beer community since our inception. After collaborating with some fantastic breweries in the UK and participating in UK beer festivals for years, we’re finally able to deliver Cigar City Brewing’s dynamic beers to Britons full-time, thanks to the help of the amazing folks at James Clay. Nobody knows the UK beer market better than James Clay’s team, so we know we’re in good hands.”
Matthew Eyre, James Clay’s Head of Sales, says his company is thrilled to add one of America’s most beloved craft beers to its distribution network and he says James Clay is prepared to do what it can to ensure that Cigar City beer arrives cold and fresh.
“Cigar City Brewing is a beacon in the global beer scene, epitomizing the energy, creativity and quality of US craft beer. We are taking great care to ensure UK beer lovers can appreciate Cigar City Brewing’s phenomenal Jai Alai IPA in perfect condition through a cold shipping and storage chain. With such a huge array of beers available in the UK market, only the world’s finest beers will stand out. We are delighted that through our partnership with Cigar City Brewing, we can offer UK beer lovers just this,” said Eyre.
Cigar City Brewing is the fastest growing craft brand in the United States and it is presently distributed in 23 U.S. states as well as Puerto Rico, Norway, Sweden, Finland, France and now the UK. Brits will find Cigar City beer in stores and bars throughout England, Scotland, and Wales over the coming weeks. To learn more and to find where to purchase Cigar City beer near you, visit the brewery’s website, www.cigarcitybrewing.com
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