Rebellion Brewery in Marlow became employee-owned on Friday, 16 October 2026, a decision its founders believe will safeguard the business for the future. This change means all profits will be reinvested into the company, and employees can receive tax-free bonuses and a stake in its success.
The move comes as many independent breweries face a period of "growing uncertainty" and decline, according to the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA). SIBA and the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) attribute this decline partly to four global conglomerates dominating the UK beer market, which they say squeezes out independent brewers.
Rebellion Brewery, which employs 75 staff and brews approximately 87,000 pints weekly, sells over 95% of its beer within a 30-mile radius of Marlow. Co-owner Mark Gloyens stated that the aim is to ensure the brewery remains secure for staff, loyal local customers, and the community.
Andy Slee, CEO of SIBA, highlighted that 50% of brewers cite survival as their main objective, pointing to high taxation, rising costs, and limited access to local markets as key challenges. He has called for a reduction in draught beer taxation ahead of the budget.