Co‑op to stock Palestinian lager in UK stores after Israeli produce boycott
The launch of the Sun & Stone lager comes just weeks after Co‑op members voted to end trade with Israeli businesses – a decision that saw the retailer add Israel to a boycott list alongside Russia, Iran and Syria. The move has drawn both praise and criticism, with supporters citing “moral courage” and opponents, including senior politicians and the Board of Deputies of British Jews, warning it would not advance peace in the Middle East.
Brewing under pressure
Founded in 1994 in the village of Taybeh, near Ramallah, Taybeh Brewing is regarded as the first microbrewery in the Middle East. It is now run by Madees Khoury – the region’s first and only female brewmaster – and her brother Canaan. The business has faced repeated challenges under Israeli occupation, including checkpoint delays, customs restrictions, water shortages and what the owners describe as escalating settler attacks.
Ms Khoury said the brewery had “no choice but to keep going” despite what she called the worst conditions in decades. She claimed recent incidents included cars being set alight, threats spray‑painted on buildings, and damage to the spring supplying most of the village’s water.
“Things are getting worse, but we’re still here, still making beer,” she said. “Our brewery provides jobs and much‑needed distraction. It tells a story – it shows a side of Palestine that people do not always see.”
Brewed in Scotland
Because of export restrictions and rising costs, Sun & Stone will be brewed and bottled in Scotland by Brewgooder, working to Taybeh’s recipe. Brewgooder co‑founder James Hughes said he was “moved by their resilience” and saw the collaboration as a way to share “a perspective of Palestine that is not often seen” while supporting humanitarian aid.
The beer’s name reflects the West Bank’s warm climate and rocky terrain. All proceeds from UK sales will go to Taybeh’s local community and to the Disasters Emergency Committee, which funds relief work in conflict‑affected areas including Gaza.
Co‑op’s stance
Co‑op chair Debbie White said the tie‑up was in line with the mutual’s “long‑standing legacy of doing the right thing, supporting Fairtrade and championing ethical sourcing”. Paul Gerrard, the group’s director of campaigns, public affairs and policy, said the initiative would “support economic stability” and provide “essential funds to those who need it most”.
The beer will be available in Co‑op stores from 10 September and can also be ordered via Brewgooder’s website.
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