Avanti West Coast has partnered with a London brewery to serve a historic style craft brew onboard its trains for a limited time as part of its guest beer offering.

Bermondsey-based Small Beer has supplied its Mexican Lager for the train operator. Based in South Bermondsey, it is the world’s first dedicated brewery to crafting beers between 2.0 and 2.8% ABV and is the first in London to have B Corp certification – a globally recognised mark for its commitment to responsible business practices.  

Described as crisp, Mexican Lager is the latest addition to Avanti West Coast’s brewery showcase – an initiative that involves it partnering with breweries within five miles of the West Coast route to feature a limited-time ‘guest beer’ onboard.

Designed to spotlight small, regional producers and give customers the chance to discover locally crafted beers on the West Coast Main Line, the guest beer changes every few weeks – offering something new to try.

Served in First Class alongside the operator’s core range, the guest beer reflects Avanti West Coast’s commitment to supporting small businesses and championing sustainable, local produce.

Small Beer was selected to feature as part of its brewery showcase after the train operator discovered the business through an initiative titled ‘Pitch Social’, which it delivered in partnership with its procurement partner, Foodbuy Group.

The initiative invited small, socially conscious businesses to pitch for a place on its inclusive and sustainable menu onboard.

The brewery takes its name from the historic low ABV (alcohol by volume) ‘small beer’ consumed for hydration in medieval times – a brewing style they have revived for the modern day. 

Rob Taylor, Food and Beverage Development Manager, said: “We’re excited to give our customers a taste of Small Beer onboard this summer. With our trains serving major towns and cities, North Wales and Scotland, our brewery showcase provides a platform to spotlight small local businesses in places they might not usually reach. By working with breweries in this way, we’re able to bring their beers to a wider audience – showcasing the best of the West Coast.

“We admire this brewery’s distinctive craft as well its sustainability credentials, and this latest partnership supports our commitment to working with responsible businesses that enhance our customer experience. We’re sure Mexican Lager will offer a refreshing addition to those making journeys across the West Coast.” 

Celia Fraser, head of on-trade at Small Beer, said: “It’s incredibly exciting to see our Mexican Lager now being served in First Class on Avanti West Coast trains.

“Taking part in Pitch Social was a fantastic experience from start to finish. From submitting our initial proposal to presenting to a panel of five judges – with many more people watching – every stage gave us the opportunity to share our story, answer questions about our business, and showcase what we’re building.

“It was also inspiring to meet so many like-minded brands, all putting sustainability at the heart of what they do. Giving businesses like these a platform to celebrate their achievements and share their impact is something Avanti West Coast and Foodbuy does exceptionally well.

“I couldn’t recommend the programme highly enough. Seeing our Mexican Lager now available onboard is a genuine pinch-me moment, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone involved in making it happen.”