Spanish brewing giant acquires traditional Suffolk ale Old Speckled Hen

Possibilities being weighed up for the possible distribution of traditional bitter in Spain

The Greene King brewery of Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk (UK) has sold its “Old Speckled Hen” beers and brand to the Spanish brewing company SA Damm, owner of Estrella Damm, including the complete portfolio of Old Golden Hen, Old Crafty Hen, Old Master Hen and the low-alcohol version of the flagship ale, among others.

For the near future production will remain at Greene King’s Bury St Edmunds brewery for a transitional period before it is moved to Damm’s recently built facility in Bedford. Old Speckled Hen brand sales currently represent more than half of Greene King's off-trade beer volume and Luke White, the managing director of Damm UK, calls it "an iconic British ale brand with a rich heritage and loyal following".

“We have great respect for the history Greene King has built around Old Speckled Hen over the last 25 years and look forward to working closely together throughout the transition period," he adds.

So, the question for expats in Spain is now “Does this mean I will soon be able to enjoy a pint of Old Speckled Hen in my local?”

Responding to a question from Spain Today Online, Damm reports that every effort possible will be made to bring the ale to other markets in which they operate, with the hope being that Spain is included. However, with the problems of transporting traditional ales and maintaining quality there are likely to be certain logistical problems for as long as production remains in the UK!

Time will tell, then, but in the meantime enjoy your local brew in Spain this weekend!