50 Years of CAMRA: Celebrating 50 years of the Campaign for Real Ale

In 1971, four friends in Ireland started a campaign to push for better beer choice, which grew into Europe's biggest single-issue consumer movement, saving the country's unique beer style and becoming the voice of the beer, cider, and perry consumer.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2021
Publisher: CAMRA Books

In March 1971, four young friends embarked on a drinking holiday to Ireland, with no grand plan other than to start a campaign advocating for better beer choices. However, their casual idea struck a chord with the public, and before they knew it, their movement had blossomed into Europe's largest and most influential consumer advocacy group. As CAMRA celebrates its landmark 50th year, it is a testament to the remarkable transformation of a group of beer enthusiasts. They turned an industry on its head, saved the country's unique beer style, and became the voice of the beer, cider, and perry consumer.

The journey of CAMRA began with a simple desire for better beer options. The friends were disheartened by the limited selection and quality of beers available in their local pubs. Determined to change this, they embarked on a mission to educate people about the diverse and delicious world of beer. They organized tastings, wrote articles, and campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness about the importance of supporting local breweries and promoting quality beer.

Their efforts paid off, and the public began to take notice. The demand for better beer grew, and breweries began to take notice. CAMRA's influence grew, and they became a powerful force in the industry. They lobbied governments, fought for legislation, and worked with breweries to improve the quality and availability of beer.

CAMRA's success was not without its challenges. They faced opposition from big breweries, who saw their advocacy as a threat to their profits. However, CAMRA remained steadfast in their mission, and their determination and passion for beer won them over. They continued to advocate for better beer choices, and their efforts paid off.

Today, CAMRA is a household name in the beer industry. They have over 180,000 members and are active in over 30 countries worldwide. Their influence extends beyond beer, as they have also campaigned for cider and perry, promoting the diversity and quality of these beverages.

CAMRA's legacy is profound. They have not only improved the quality of beer available to consumers but have also played a significant role in preserving the country's rich beer heritage. They have fought against the homogenization of beer and have championed the unique flavors and styles that make each beer region and brewery special.

As CAMRA looks forward to the next 50 years, it is clear that their mission will continue to be vital. The world of beer is constantly evolving, and CAMRA will be there to advocate for better beer choices, protect the unique beer styles, and promote the enjoyment of beer by all.

In conclusion, CAMRA's journey from a group of friends advocating for better beer choices to Europe's largest consumer advocacy group is a testament to the power of passion and determination. They have turned an industry on its head, saved the country's unique beer style, and become the voice of the beer, cider, and perry consumer. As they celebrate their 50th anniversary, CAMRA is poised to continue its important work, ensuring that the world of beer remains vibrant, diverse, and delicious for generations to come.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 138 x 216 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781852493691