The Co-operative Group has signed contracts with 20 local breweries to supply its Scottish food stores as part of the group’s commitment to supporting small, local producers.

The breweries will supply Co-operative food stores across Scotland with around 45 different ales, with sales forecast to reach in excess of 500,000 pints in 2018.

The Co-op Group in Scotland’s ranging manager, Charlotte Bleasdale said: “The combination of innovation, tradition, quality and passion make these ales prized and much sought after locally. We know that food provenance really matters to our customers. Quality and trust are key for consumers – Scottish food and drink is world-renowned and the Co-op is committed to investing in its local communities, providing opportunities to showcase, support and celebrate great Scottish food and drink.”

Burnside Brewery is one of many suppliers who will benefit from the scheme. Two of its drinks, Wild Rhino ale and Golden X Best Bitter, have been chosen fo supply to Co-op stores across Scotland. 

Burnside Brewery co-founder Gary Metcalfe, said: “We are delighted. Our mission is quite simple really – great tasting beers. This contact win is our largest yet and, will play a part in raising awareness of our brand in new markets, making our beers available in communities across Scotland.”

Fierce Brewery of Dyce, in Aberdeen, won Breakthrough Brewery of the Year at the 2017 Scottish Beer Awards and will supply 35 Co-op stores with three of its ales: Easy Shift; Day Shift and, Moose Mousse.

Sales and markerting manager, Louise Grant said: “We are delighted to be working with the Co-op, its support for local producers fits well with our ethos of sourcing locally – such as a local chocolatier providing ingredients for our Moose Mousse chocolate stout. The reach and exposure of the Co-op’s community-based stores comes at a great time in our business development, supporting our brand awareness and opening markets among residents and visitors alike.”

The Co-op Group operates around 350 food stores in Scotland and is looking to expands its commitment to the local sourcing of food and drink by signing more contracts with local breweries in the future.