Joe Dick, marketing and communications manager at James Clay and Sons is to receive Knighthood of the Belgian Brewer’s Mash Paddle in recognition for “exceptional contributions” in the development of Belgian beer.
He joins his colleagues Ian Clay, Nigel Stevenson, and James Clay in receiving the honour established to recognise those that have made marked contributions in the development of Belgian beer across the globe.
Commenting on the accolade, he said: “When I joined James Clay and Sons back in 2016 I was immediately taken by the photograph of Ian receiving his knighthood, and instantly set that as a long term goal of mine.”
“I’m truly delighted that our efforts in marketing Belgian beer in the UK have been well received, and we continue to grow it each year, despite the pressures within the industry.”
“While I will receive this honour, I couldn’t do so without the enormous work and support of all my colleagues, friends, and family over the years, and I do truly view it as recognition of everything we all do together”.
James Clay and Sons have been importing Belgian beer to the UK since our inception back in 1978, with founder Ian Clay looking to offer the British consumer a taste of the wider world of beer, at a point in time when UK brewery consolidation was rampant and consumer choice at an all time low.
50 years later the beer industry landscape is different, but the mission remains the same, to champion a beer world where quality and culture thrives.
On Joe’s knighthood, Chairman Ian Clay commented: “Joe has had great success launching our UK Belgian Beer Week, further promoting the special world of Belgian Beer and the unique styles and flavour they offer. Over the past decade Joe has worked hard to promote and educate British consumers and we are very proud that he is to receive this well deserved Knighthood”.
The Union of Belgian Brewers administers the Knighthood, and their origins go all the way back to the 14th century, making them one of the oldest guilds in the world. To receive a knighthood, one must be nominated by an existing member from a brewery, and for this nomination to receive further support from other members.
Karel Boon from Brouwerij Boon said: “Many people have contributed to selling Belgian beer in the UK, but Joe stands out from that group of people as he doesn’t just sell Belgian beer, he promotes it.
“He knows what is done by Belgian brewers to create that drink in your glass and he does the effort to try and explain this to professionals and beer enthusiasts in the UK.”
