TL;DR: Changing Times, an independent brewery from Glasnevin, has kicked off its expansion into the UK market, anticipating a sales growth of over 30% this year. Founded by Cork brewer Shane Long and key Dublin publicans, the brewery has already secured listings in more than 50 British outlets, following a strong launch in Ireland last November.
Changing Times has officially made its move into the British drinks market, a strategic expansion that the Glasnevin-based brewery believes will significantly enhance its sales figures. Founded in 2024 by Cork’s Shane Long alongside notable Dublin publicans—including the team behind Crane Lane and Benny McCabe of the Heritage Trail pubs—the brewery has rapidly secured its foothold in the UK’s competitive beverage landscape through a partnership with Inn Express, a UK wholesale drinks supplier. With over 50 outlets already lined up to serve its products, the buzz around its premium Irish stout is palpable.
“Things moved much quicker than we expected. We had always planned to expand into the UK, but our timeline was a little further down the road,” Long admitted. He noted that Inn Express stumbled upon Changing Times while scouting for new beer offerings during a pub visit. The mutual interest led to swift negotiations, culminating in a quicker-than-anticipated entry into the British market, an opportunity they were keen to seize.
Launching in Ireland just last November and generating an impressive €1.2 million in sales in 2025, Changing Times has quickly ramped up production to meet escalating demand, currently standing at 200 kegs per week. The initial two-beer lineup has expanded to five draught offerings, including standout brews like Daydreamer Lager and Clockwork Stout.
The backing of some of Dublin’s most esteemed publicans lends credibility to the budding brand. Notable venues like The Palace Bar and The Long Hall are amongst the establishments associated with Changing Times. In Cork, their products can be found in McCabe’s venues such as Fran Well Rising Sons Brewery, showcasing a strong local connection as well.
Yet there’s a cheeky thought rattling around: is this expansion into the UK just a clever way to tap into the same kind of “loud” drinking culture that exists in countless Irish pubs? While some may argue that authentic Irish identity is better preserved at home, Changing Times seems poised to flaunt its heritage across the pond, one craft beer at a time.
As many are well aware, the craft beer scene in Ireland has exploded in recent years, with microbreweries popping up like so many bright stars in a Dublin sky. At this rate, there could soon be more independent breweries than locals who remember the last time they had a pint of Guinness without a side of artisan cheese.
Interestingly, the craft beer market in Britain is expanding rapidly as well, with UK consumers increasingly eager to try Irish offerings. According to market trends, beer lovers are actively seeking unique and quality-oriented drinks, meaning Changing Times might just find a home across the water—provided they don’t run into any pesky trade barriers.
In the ever-evolving world of craft brewing, one can’t help but wonder what next steps Changing Times might take. They’re navigating a landscape that’s already brimming with creativity, so it’ll be fun to see what else brews up in the months ahead.
