Eddie Gadd, the pioneering founder and head brewer of Ramsgate brewery, has been named Brewer of the Year 2026 by the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group (APPBG).

The accolade was presented to Gadd during the APPBG’s annual beer awards dinner at Westminster (above), an event attended by MPs, peers, and figures from across the British drinks sector.

The award, decided by a panel including representatives from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) and the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), celebrates Gadd’s unwavering commitment to independent cask beer culture, regional heritage, and local agriculture.

APPBG chair and Gower MP Tonia Antoniazzi praised Gadd for his championing of local ingredients, leadership within the beer community, role as a mentor to up-and-coming brewers, career-long commitment to standard-setting quality, vocal advocacy for the independent brewing sector and loyalty to his employees.

Gadd started the brewery in 2002 and has spent more than two decades establishing Gadds’ East Kent beers as a benchmark for quality. He is widely recognised for his dedication to using Kentish hops wherever possible, actively safeguarding the region’s historic hop growing industry.

An engineer at heart, Gadd has installed a pioneering CO2 recovery plant, which is considered a feat of engineering for a small 5,000hl brewery, and the first of its kind in the UK. He has embraced and championed sustainability more broadly, including installing solar panels at the brewery and helping other brewers to brew more responsibly.

Gadd said: “To be recognised by parliament and our industry peers is an incredible honour. This award isn’t just for me; it’s a testament to our fantastic team at the brewery and the brilliant Kentish hop growers who make our beer possible.

“Independent cask ale is a vital part of British culture, and we will keep fighting to keep it thriving.”

East Thanet MP Polly Billington said: “This is a brilliant accomplishment for you and the team at Gadds’. I’m so proud of your achievement and the great work at Gadds’ brewery.”