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Is Whitbread Still a Brewery?

Published in Corporate History 1 min read

No, Whitbread is no longer involved in brewing beer. While the company has a rich history rooted in the brewing industry, its current operations are focused entirely on the hospitality sector.

A Legacy in Brewing

The origins of Whitbread trace back to Samuel Whitbread, who began brewing in London in 1742. By 1750, his operations moved to the renowned Chiswell Street brewery. This significant historical site, though it still stands in London today, no longer brews. This marked a pivotal point in the evolution of the original brewing business.

Modern Whitbread: A Hospitality Giant

Over the decades, Whitbread evolved significantly, transitioning away from its brewing roots. Today, Whitbread PLC is a leading hospitality company, primarily known for:

  • Premier Inn: The UK's largest hotel brand.
  • Restaurants: Including popular brands like Beefeater, Brewers Fayre, and Bar + Block.

The company divested its brewing and pub operations years ago, focusing strategically on hotels and restaurants. Therefore, while its history is steeped in beer production, the contemporary Whitbread business is not a brewery. For more information on their current business, you can visit the official Whitbread PLC website.