Brains Brewing Co

Brains Brewery was founded in Cardiff in 1882 when Samuel Arthur Brain purchased his father-in-law's Thomas's Brewery in St Mary Street. With financial backing from his uncle Joseph Benjamin Brain, the brewery quickly expanded and established itself as one of Wales' leading brewers.

Throughout the twentieth century, Brains overcame wartime restrictions, changing licensing laws and the destruction caused by the Cardiff Blitz, while continuing to grow its reputation. The brewery's Red Dragon became an enduring symbol of the company and Welsh brewing.

In 1958, Brains created SA to celebrate Cardiff hosting the Empire Games. The beer went on to become one of Wales' most recognisable ales and remains the brewery's flagship. The acquisition of Crown Buckley in 1997 further strengthened Brains' position as Wales' largest brewer, bringing beers such as Rev. James into the portfolio.

Brains has long been closely associated with Welsh culture and sport, most famously sponsoring the Welsh national rugby team between 2004 and 2010. During away matches in France, where alcohol advertising was prohibited, the famous 'Brains' logo was replaced with 'Brawn', creating one of rugby's most memorable sponsorship moments.

Today, brewing takes place at the modern Dragon Brewery in Cardiff, where Brains continues to produce its heritage range alongside innovative small-batch beers. More than 140 years after its first brew, the brewery remains proudly Welsh while investing in sustainability, brewing innovation and the next generation of brewers.