Jersey joy for Mary Ann

The Liberation Group, which owns Jersey’s largest pub chain and Jersey Brewery, is bringing the Channel Island’s most famous beer figure out of retirement. Mary Ann, the Channel Islands’ best known beer brand, is being relaunched due to consumer demand for products which are locally produced, benefitting local people.

New-look branding will replace the traditional wheat sheaf imagery and for the first time in many years, the beer will also be available in bottles as well as draught.

Mark Crowther, the Liberation Group’s chief executive, said: “We see this as a significant decision to relaunch a brand which is synonymous with the Island’s strong brewing heritage. Almost everyone in Jersey has heard of Mary Ann. Using the name again will reflect the fact we produce a quality, local product using Jersey skills and expertise which benefits local people and visitors to the island.”

According to a survey performed by the group, the Mary Ann brand is as well-known as other leading island products such as the Jersey cow and Jersey Royal potato. Apparently, 99% of people who took part in the survey recognised the brand, despite the name being replaced by Jersey Special and Jersey Best six years ago.

The brewery is a member of the Genuine Jersey Products Association which says it has noticed a change in drinking patterns and consumer choice, as well as the demand for products which are produced locally, with the benefits returned to the local community, are at the forefront of this change.

Alexis Hercules 05/11/08