From Serving Beer to Brewing It: The Birth of Indie Rabble
With co-founder Dave Hayward
In this episode, Martin sits down with Dave Hayward, co-founder of Indie Rabble, to explore the bold journey from running one of Reading’s best-known micropubs (A Hoppy Place) to launching a community-driven independent brewery.
Episode Highlights
- Why pubs need to support true independents, not just big golobal brands
- What it really takes to grow an indie brewery in the current market
- How Indie Rabble was born during turbulent times in the industry
- The release of Indie Pils, their new core range Pilsner
Dave says:
“I think 50 % or so breweries have also said their number one priority for this year is to survive.”
Support Indie Breweries
Want to support UK independent breweries like the ones discussed in this episode? Check out these indie beers featured in our shop
Why This Episode Matters
This episode matters to consumers because it reveals how independent breweries and micropubs shape the beer scene and why supporting them matters. Dave Hayward, co-founder of Indie Rabble, shares the story of moving from running Reading’s A Hoppy Place to launching a community-driven brewery, offering insight into the challenges of growing an indie brand in today’s market. Listeners learn about the creation of their new core range, Indie Pils, and why true independents need backing from pubs to thrive alongside global brands. With reflections on lessons from their first two years and plans for the future, this conversation shows consumers that choosing indie beer isn’t just about taste—it’s about sustaining local creativity, community, and diversity in the beer world.
At The Beer Rep, we’re more than just a store—we’re here to tell the stories behind the beers and support the people who make them. Thanks for tuning in and supporting independent breweries along the way.
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