Kelly’s On King, the “ultimate Irish Australian” pub, is opposing “corporate” and “multinational craft beer” and promoting Australian-made beer.
The popular pub's owners shared their stance earlier this year, asking in an Instagram post: “Where is the Balter? 4 Pines? Pirate Life? Stone & Wood?” The Japanese beverage company, Asahi Breweries, acquired all four.
The post continued, “In 2024 we decided not to renew our corporate brewery agreements that include tap % commitments, in favour of supporting some of the many great Australian independent breweries.”
Writing that they made the decision “out of concern for the future of brewing in Australia”, citing the Japanese acquisition of Carlton & United Breweries and Lion Nathan.
According to Kelly’s On King, Asahi Breweries now controls “about 80 to 85 per cent” of our local brewing market.
“As a result of market dominance their profit margins have been reported at up to 40%,” the pub’s owners added. “Their kegs can cost 20-30% or more than the independent equivalent, which leaves plenty of room for ‘venue rebates’ - that is if you agree to give them a majority of your tap space, leaving no room for the small guys.
“Don't get us wrong there is a place for VB, Reschs, Carlton Draught, Tooheys, Kilkenny and of course Guinness at Kelly's. We just want to share the love, so we won’t be ranging the corporate ‘crafts’ anymore ...”
Kelly’s On King licensee Brodie Parish told news.com.au that the Japanese company “has their own labels, and they pass them off pretty well as independent brands.”
Adding that Asahi Breweries make good beers, Parish believes that part of the problem stems from the duopoly making quality beers after acquiring reputable Australian breweries. “The duopoly has repercussions on the (independent) industry moving forward,” Parish said.
In addition to running a pub showcasing independently brewed Australian beers, Kelly’s On King hosts the bandroom Bootleggers.
