Australia: Prompts for investigation into international control over Australian beer market

The Federal Government and independent brewers are pushing the ACCC to investigate into the enormous power that large international companies have in the Australian beer market, 6PR reported on April 30.

Up to 85% of all beer brewed in Australia is produced by either one of two internationally owned companies, Lion or Carlton & United Breweries.

Independent Brewers Association CEO Kylie Lethbridge told Oliver Peterson on Perth Live these companies are locking up close to 90% of taps in venues through lucrative contracts, pushing up prices.

“The compounding effects for our breweries…we’re seeings those that are going into administration, those that are closing their doors, consolidating or going into hibernation so it is the most challenging time for the evolution of craft beer in our country,” Lethbridge said.

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