About Charles Wells
Charles Wells Ltd has successfully combined 125 years of brewing and pub retailing with a genuine spirit of innovation and enterprise. Today, the company is the UK's largest independent brewer and is seen as an international drinks company of note by both the trade and consumers alike.
Five generations of Wells'
Formed by Charles Wells in 1876 and originally located in Horne Lane, Bedford, the company moved to its current location at the Wells & Young's Brewery a century later. Having seen five generations pass, three Wells family members remain actively involved in shaping the company’s future; Paul Wells (Managing Director), Tom Wells (Vice Chairman) and Peter Wells (Retail Marketing Director).
Global brands
Charles Wells brews an award winning portfolio of brands, including; Wells Bombardier English Premium Bitter, Wells Eagle IPA, Red Stripe Jamaica Lager Beer, and Kirin Ichiban, the renowned Japanese lager. In addition, Charles Wells is the sole UK distributor of Corona Extra, the world’s 4th largest beer brand.
Growth through quality
Charles Wells’ commitment to growing top quality brands is typified by the remarkable growth of Wells Bombardier English Premium Bitter, in a highly competitive market, from a regional ale to “one of Britain’s biggest selling premium cask beers”(Source: 2004 edition of the ‘Good Beer Guide’). This commitment also extends to its lager portfolio. Having brewed Red Stripe Jamaica Lager Beer since 1976, Charles Wells continues to develop innovative marketing plans for the brand which has resulted in significant sales and distribution growth.
The company continues to invest in its brands and has been described thus; “Charles Wells has transformed itself into an innovative, brand focussed, sales driven company.” (Mark Stretton, ’The Publican’ newspaper).
Internationally, Charles Wells exports to over 40 countries, an achievement that was marked by Charles Wells receiving the ‘Queen’s Award for Export Achievement’ in 1997. Furthermore, the company has pub retail developments and partners throughout Europe.
A track record of innovation
An ongoing commitment to New Product Development is at the heart of the company's future. This, balanced with regular consumer market research, a policy of listening keenly to trade customers' requirements and close observation of consumer trends, allows Charles Wells to retain a leading market position. Examples of innovations brought to the market by Charles Wells include; fresh real ale in a mini-cask for the off-trade, illuminated dispense for smooth-flow ales, shaped cans and the ever-popular Wells Banana Bread Beer.
