The Stout Boom in the UK: Why Irish Beer Became a Trend

Stout beer, especially Guinness, is enjoying growing popularity in the UK. The demand is so high that there were even shortages in many pubs before Christmas. But what's behind the stout hype on the island?

Stout
© Photo by Papafox on Pixabay
28.04.2025
Source:  Various sources in the internet

Nitrosurge and "Splitting the G": Stout goes Social Media

An important factor for the stout boom is social media trends around the tapping and drinking technique. Especially the use of the "Nitrosurge" tap, which gives the beer its creamy head, is extensively celebrated.

The trend of "Splitting the G", where you try to hit the beer line exactly in the middle of the Guinness lettering on the glass with the first sip, also contributes to its popularity. Such challenges spread virally and make stout popular with younger target groups as well.

Guinness Dominates, but Competition is Growing

Although Guinness is the undisputed number 1 among stout beers, other brands are also benefiting from the trend. Craft beer drinkers are eager to experiment and increasingly turn to stout varieties from smaller breweries. In addition, new flavors and reduced-alcohol variants are scoring points.

Buyer Groups: Young, Female, Trend-Conscious

While stout used to be considered an old man's drink, it is now popular with a broad group of buyers. According to market researchers, the core target group is between 25 and 44 years old. Women are also reaching for the dark beer more often. Many buyers are craft beer enthusiasts and appreciate the variety and quality.

Conclusion: Thanks to viral social media trends, new target groups, and the unbroken dominance of Guinness, stout is experiencing a new heyday in Great Britain. It remains exciting to see how the market will develop with further innovations and the growing craft beer segment.