Lion

Hello old friend: Tooheys Old Dark Ale officially returns to cans

brydie — Fri, 01 May 2026 01:35:24 +0000

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May 1, 2026

Hello old friend: Tooheys Old Dark Ale officially returns to cans

The highly anticipated return to canned format was driven by overwhelming demand.

What you need to know

Tooheys Old Dark Ale has returned to 375ml cans for the first time in decades.
The move was driven by overwhelming demand from the drink’s loyal fan base.

Tooheys, the beer of New South Wales, has announced the highly-anticipated return of Tooheys Old Dark Ale in 375ml cans. The launch marks the first time in decades that the heritage brew has been available in the canned format, following overwhelming demand from its loyal consumer base.

First brewed in 1869, Tooheys Old has been a mainstay of Australian pubs for over 150 years, maintaining a dedicated following for its unique top-fermentation process and roasted malt profile. Traditionally a staple of the tap-and-glass landscape, the reintroduction of a canned format ensures that one of Australia’s most loved dark ales is now more accessible and portable than ever before.

“Tooheys Old is a legend of the Australian brewing industry, and its fans are arguably the most passionate in the country”, said Karen Sterling-Levis, Brand Director – Core Beer at LION.

“For years, the question wasn’t if we should put Old in a can, but when. We’ve listened to the pub talk and social media comments, and we’re stoked to finally say ‘yes, it can’."

Karen Sterling-Levis, Brand Director – Core Beer at LION

She adds, “The beauty of Tooheys Old is that it defies the ‘heavy’ dark beer stereotype; it’s refreshing, smooth, and surprisingly easy-drinking. By putting it in a can, we’re making this piece of Australian brewing history fit seamlessly into the modern lifestyle, whether that’s in the sheds, with the team or at a festival. It’s the same legendary brew, just ready for more adventures.”

Tooheys Old Dark Ale (4.4% ABV) retains its signature chocolate and roasted coffee notes, derived from the use of black malt during the brewing process. The new 375ml cans feature the iconic stag and a sleek black-and-gold designed to stand out in the esky, while paying homage to its 19th-century roots.

Tooheys Old cans are now available at participating major liquor retailers and independent bottle shops nationwide. RRP starts from $65.99 per case (24) and $23.99 per 6-pack.

The post Hello old friend: Tooheys Old Dark Ale officially returns to cans first appeared on Lion.

OpenAI and LION collaborate to bring AI at scale to Australia’s beverage industry

brydie — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 02:00:51 +0000

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April 28, 2026

OpenAI and LION collaborate to bring AI at scale to Australia's beverage industry

LION has announced a landmark collaboration in Australia and New Zealand with OpenAI.

What you need to know

LION has announced a collaboration to bring artificial intelligence at scale into the alcohol and beverage sector in the first FMCG partnership in Australia and New Zealand with OpenAI.
LION has begun deploying ChatGPT Enterprise across its workforce of 2500+
Building on this momentum, LION is also beginning to explore the use of Codex – OpenAI’s agentic coding tool utilised by 4 million weekly active users.

LION, a leading beverages company with powerhouse brands such as XXXX and Speight’s today announced a landmark collaboration to bring artificial intelligence at scale into the alcohol and beverage sector, in the first FMCG partnership in Australia and New Zealand with OpenAI.

Through this collaboration, OpenAI and LION will work together to embed AI across LION’s operations, from manufacturing and supply chain through to retail, marketing and corporate functions. This marks a significant step in integrating AI not as a standalone tool, but as a foundational capability reshaping how the business operates, makes decisions and drives growth.

LION has begun deploying ChatGPT Enterprise across its 2500+ workforce, supported by strong executive sponsorship and leadership engagement. This reflects a deliberate, top-down commitment to embedding AI into day-to-day workflows and accelerating organisation-wide adoption.

Early use AI cases are already demonstrating tangible value, from optimising days in inventory and unlocking insights from decades of brand data, to exploring new applications across brewing and production and supporting field sales teams. The team is also applying AI to demand forecasting, using more than 500 variables to better predict demand for beer, RTD, wine and spirits.

Building on this momentum, LION is also beginning to explore the use of Codex – OpenAI’s agentic coding tool utilised by 4 million weekly active users – to enhance productivity and accelerate innovation across its operations. LION has optimised parts of its legacy production code using OpenAI’s tools, in some instances by more than 99%. These initiatives highlight the potential for AI to drive efficiency, enhance productivity, and enable smarter, data-driven decision-making at scale.

The rollout has been designed to drive meaningful behaviour change across the organisation, with leadership and HR teams championing adoption. By equipping employees with new capabilities, LION aims to empower teams and future-proof its workforce in an increasingly AI-driven economy.

“At LION, we’ve always believed in evolving with our consumers and embracing innovation. This collaboration with OpenAI is about equipping our people with the tools and capabilities to work smarter, move faster, and continue delivering great products and experiences for our customers."

Robb Simpson, Executive General Manager – Digital & Technology at LION

“We’re constantly balancing supply and demand in a category where conditions can change overnight. Something as simple as an unexpected spike in temperature can drive a surge in demand for beer and spirits, putting pressure on our supply chain and our customers. That’s why we see significant opportunity in using tools like ChatGPT Enterprise to improve our demand forecasting and ensure we can respond more quickly and accurately in real time.”

Satya Tammareddy, Head of Go-To-Market for Australia & New Zealand at OpenAI, said LION is a reference case for how AI can be effectively deployed across complex, operational businesses, setting a new benchmark for Australia’s alcohol and beverage sector and beyond.

“LION is demonstrating a thoughtful, ambitious approach to AI adoption, embedding it across the organisation to unlock real value. This collaboration reflects the growing opportunity for established industries to use AI not just to optimise operations, but to fundamentally rethink how they grow, innovate, and compete.”

ChatGPT’s enterprise adoption is accelerating rapidly in Australia and New Zealand , with organisations such as Commonwealth Bank, Coles, Air New Zealand, Wesfarmers, Fortescue and Virgin Australia moving beyond experimentation to deploying AI in ways that drive real impact across their business, from engineering and operations through to customer engagement to unlock new levels of productivity.

The post OpenAI and LION collaborate to bring AI at scale to Australia’s beverage industry first appeared on Lion.

Three Peach Gin: the newest member of the Four Pillars family

brydie — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:13:16 +0000

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April 28, 2026

Three Peach Gin: the newest member of the Four Pillars family

Three Peaches, layered for one perfectly balanced pour.

What you need to know

Four Pillars has added to its award-winning range with a limited edition Three Peach Gin.
Inspired by the classic brunch cocktail, the Bellini, the gin features three different kinds of peach.

Four Pillars is expanding the family with new limited-edition release, Three Peach Gin, a delicate and balanced gin designed for refreshing cocktails

The inspiration for the Three Peach Gin was brunch beverages. While the team has always been partial to a Red Snapper (IYKYK), they got talking about the breakfast (cocktail) of champions, the Bellini, which lead to peaches and ultimately here: the gin-of-our-daytime-dreams, Three Peach Gin.

To make Three Peach, first up is the gin that is distilled across the two original stills, Wilma and Jude. Dry botanicals are added into the pot, including juniper, bourbon vanilla pods, roasted almonds, roasted wattle seed, strawberry gum, and the first of the three peaches – native quandong. Into the botanical basket go fresh botanicals including apples, finger limes and some fresh peaches, which bring a brightness and freshness to balance out the dry botanicals.

The stills are normally where Four Pillars’ gin making starts and ends but with this gin, the fun continues post distillation. To bring through that peachy bellini flavour and a hint of colour, a yellow and white peach macerate is added.

Sarah Prowse, Four Pillars Head of Distilling says: “The final liquid is a delicate, layered gin that balances fresh peach, zesty green apples and finger lime citrus with the warming spices from the dry botanicals and the aromas from the strawberry gum.”

“There are aromas of white stone fruit & white chocolate with hints of citrus and green apple, and on the palate there is a soft rounded sweetness with a crisp finish. We made it to a lower ABV – 37.8% (the same as our Bloody Shiraz Gin), which suits some of the more delicate botanicals and also happens to be pretty perfect for a brunch tipple!”

Sarah Prowse, Head of Distilling at Four Pillars

To celebrate the launch, Four Pillars is partnering with Johnny’s Green Room and Applejack Hospitality venues throughout May, with Three Peach Gin part of a featured cocktail across menus at The Butler, The Botanist, RAFI North Sydney, RAFI URBNSURF and Opera Bar.

At the Four Pillars Healesville Distillery, visitors will have the chance to experience a limited-time Peachy Tasting from 28 April, featuring three mini cocktails paired with Made From Gin bites, alongside a menu of cocktail specials.

To help bring Three Peach Gin to life, Four Pillars Creative Director of Gin Drinks, Nick Tesar, has created a series of serves perfect for marking the occasion:

Peach Gin Spritz: Combine 12 mint leaves with 45ml Three Peach Gin, 10ml sugar syrup, 2 dashes aromatic bitters, 30ml soda water, 60ml sparkling wine. Top with ice and garnish with a mint sprig and lemon slice.
Charlie Chaplin: Add 30ml Three Peach Gin, 20ml peach liquor, 20ml lemon juice and 10ml sugar syrup to a tin and shake with ice. Strain into a coup glass.
Peach Bellini: Mix 30ml Three Peach Gin and 30ml peach puree in a flute. Top with 75ml sparkling wine and stir to combine.
Classic: Pour 45ml Three Peach Gin and 100ml soda water into a rocks glass. Top with ice and garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of thyme.

Four Pillars’ Three Peach Gin ($82) will be available to the Four Pillars email database from 23 April. It will be available to the wider public from 28 April online at www.fourpillarsgin.com, the Gin Shop at the Four Pillars Healesville Distillery, global travel retail and broader indie retail.

The post Three Peach Gin: the newest member of the Four Pillars family first appeared on Lion.

LION Statement on the VRC Partnership

alexb — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 06:48:57 +0000

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April 19, 2026

LION Statement on the VRC Partnership

After a 25-year partnership with the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), LION has made the decision to conclude their partnership.

LION CEO, Anubha Sahasrabuddhe, said: “LION has enjoyed a long partnership with the VRC, however in evaluating our portfolio we have made the decision to pursue fresh opportunities that align with our strategic priorities and drive strong return on investment for our next era of growth.

“Throughout our partnership, we’ve proudly supported the VRC and created amazing experiences for race goers through our powerhouse brands. These experiences will be fondly remembered, and we wish the VRC continued success in their future endeavours.”

LION maintains arguably one of the most enviable Sports Partnerships Portfolios in Australia, including the recent Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix with Heineken, as well as sponsorship of the Sydney Swans with Tooheys, Waratahs with Guinness and the SACA and SANFL in South Australia with West End. Last year Hahn became the official beer of the Hahn Australia Cup with Football Australia and a sponsor of the GWS Giants. XXXX is a proud partner of current AFL Premiers the Brisbane Lions, and NRL Premiers the Brisbane Broncos. LION also has longstanding partnerships with the Queensland Reds, Penrith Panthers, North Queensland Cowboys, Gold Coast Titans, Dolphins, Queensland Maroons and NSW Blues among many others.

The post LION Statement on the VRC Partnership first appeared on Lion.

LION commissions 3MW electric boiler at Speight’s Brewery

brydie — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 03:44:14 +0000

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April 15, 2026

LION commissions 3MW electric boiler at Speight's Brewery

The $7.2 million project will reduce the brewery’s greenhouse gas emissions by 85 per cent.

What you need to know

LION has commissioned a 3MW electric boiler at Speight’s Brewery, which will significantly reduce carbon emissions for the site.
The new boiler is expected to save 18,500 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in its lifetime.
The project was delivered through shared investment with EECA, Aurora Energy and LION.

LION has commissioned a 3MW electric boiler at Speight’s Brewery, marking the completion of a $7.2 million project that will significantly reduce carbon emissions and increase energy demand flexibility and security for central Dunedin.

Officially commissioned by MP for Dunedin the Honourable Rachel Brooking, the project upgraded the brewery’s primary energy source for steam production from LPG to electricity and is expected to yield lifetime greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions savings of 18,500 tonnes (708 tonnes per year).

“We are proud to have made a significant investment in New Zealand’s oldest working brewery."

Craig Baldie, Chief Operating Officer and NZ Country Director at LION

“Founded in 1876, Speight’s is LION’s second largest brewery and much-loved tourism attraction. The electric boiler will abate around 85 per cent of the Speight’s Brewery’s GHG emissions.

“Delivered through shared investment with EECA, Aurora Energy and LION, this project is a clear example of our ambition to be a force for good and a force for growth.”

Aurora Energy General Manager Customer and Commercial Services, Mark Pratt said the project was done with future demand in mind.

“To support the installation of Speight’s electric boiler, Aurora Energy upgraded and installed 480m of 11 kV cable along Rattray Street. The cable upgrade had the added benefit of improving electricity transfer capacity between Smith St and South City substations and will support future growth and electrification projects in central Dunedin.”

EECA’s Manager Regional & Sector Partnerships Paul Bull reinforced how the Speight’s electric boiler project is an example of strong collaboration leading to greater benefits.

“From early engagement with EECA, through to securing buy-in and support from Meridian, Aurora Energy, and others – LION has shown real leadership.

“This was a complex project, and it’s been terrific to see it go from idea to reality. It will provide inspiration and lessons for others considering electrification. The Speight’s electric boiler is a huge win when energy resilience is front of mind for many.”

The project was originally conceived in 2021 and took just over 4 years to complete. Engineering plans and works had to navigate historical central Dunedin infrastructure and the 150-year-old Speight’s brewery architecture. Delivery involved cross-functional teams from LION as well as national and local partners.

“Reflecting the strategic importance of large-scale electrification, this important project was enabled by shared investment with EECA and Aurora Energy, partnership with Meridian Energy and delivery by key partners including Beca, Windsor Engineering and others.

“As a proud B Corporation, partnership projects that deliver wider benefits like the Speight’s electric boiler, demonstrate our commitment to doing the right thing for the long term,” said Mr Baldie.

Notes for editors:

LION completed an Energy Transition Accelerator with EECA in 2021, which identified the option of installing a 3MW electric boiler at the Speights Brewery.
EECA provided $1.6 million in co-funding towards the project, announced in 2023.
Aurora Energy invested $1.5 million in lines upgrades along Rattray Street to enable Speight’s to electrify.
LION invested $4.1 million in capital to deliver the project.
The electric boiler will abate around 85 per cent of Speight’s GHG emissions (6 per cent of LION’s emissions in New Zealand).
The Speight’s electric boiler project also involved expertise and support from Beca, Meridian Energy, NES Central & Scorpion, Isaacs, Windsor, Titans and Connor Jones Group.

The post LION commissions 3MW electric boiler at Speight’s Brewery first appeared on Lion.

Voodoo Ranger drops two new RTD classic flavours with a spirited twist

alexb — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 05:52:32 +0000

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April 13, 2026

Voodoo Ranger drops two new RTD classic flavours with a spirited twist

The new Voodoo Ranger Hard Cola and Hard Lemonade are refreshing, easy-drinking alternatives to traditional mixed drinks.

What you need to know

Voodoo Ranger has launched two new vodka-based ready-to-drink beverages, with 6% ABV and packed in a larger 375ml can
The drinks are a punchy alternative to the usually subtle, low-intensity options in the RTD market.

Craft brewer Voodoo Ranger is shaking up the RTD category with the launch of its first vodka-based range to hit Australian shelves. Aimed at GenZennial male drinkers who are looking for big flavour, strength and value, the new Voodoo Ranger Hard Cola and Hard Lemonade options provide a refreshing, easy-drinking alternative to traditional mixed drinks.

Taking two classic refreshers and giving them a spirited twist, the new 6% ABV RTD range delivers a crisp and lively fizz with flavour in every sip, packed in a larger 375mL can. While the RTD market is led by subtle, low-intensity options, Voodoo Ranger is a punchy alternative that delivers a sweet, refreshing hit with a clean vodka kick.

Whether it’s a backyard session with mates or a post-skatepark hang, Voodoo Ranger is crafted for those who like their drinks full of flavour with a little extra swagger. Hard Cola brings a bold take to a timeless classic, fusing nostalgic cola flavour with a crafted edge, while Hard Lemonade zings with bright citrus characters, offering a tangy and refreshing beverage.

“We are seeing a shift in how young Aussie men engage with RTDs, with a strong desire for drinks that pack real flavour and don't compromise on value. Cola and Lemonade are amongst the top three most popular mixers with vodka, yet only account for 2% of the light RTD industry. By expanding the vodka RTD category, we are bridging the gap between nostalgic, full-throttle flavour and the refreshing finish that more drinkers are demanding.”

Albertus Lombard, Brand Director – RTD at LION

Voodoo Ranger Hard Cola and Hard Lemonade are available now from $29 RRP for a 4-pack at leading liquor retailers including Liquor Legends, Liquor Barons, Star Liquor, and Ritchies IGA.

The post Voodoo Ranger drops two new RTD classic flavours with a spirited twist first appeared on Lion.

Kirin Hyoketsu Strawberry arrives from Japan to meet flavour demands of younger drinkers

brydie — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 23:30:17 +0000

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March 30, 2026

Kirin Hyoketsu Strawberry arrives from Japan to meet flavour demands of younger drinkers

The latest flavour from the Kirin Hyoketsu range is set to deliver on what Aussie drinkers are looking for.

What you need to know

Kirin Hyoketsu has introduced a Strawberry flavour to the Australian market.
The bold flavour choice caters to the 55% of Aussie RTD drinkers who are seeking a strawberry option.
The Australian market has become a stomping ground for Japanese-inspired innovation which is evident in the popularity of Japanese RTDs

Strawberry in a vodka soda? The wait is over. Kirin Hyoketsu, a leader in the globally influential Japanese ‘Chu-hi’ style RTD, has officially launched Kirin Hyoketsu Strawberry. This tasty launch arrives as the RTD market continues to evolve, driven by a resurgence in male participation and a deep craving for the refined innovation of Japanese drinking culture.

Made from vodka, soda and natural strawberry juice, the new 6% ABV RTD boasts a fresh flavour that delivers a perfect blend of juicy, sun-ripened strawberry notes with a subtle tartness that keeps it refreshingly light, without any lingering aftertaste. While lemon and citrus flavoured RTDs continue to dominate shelf space, Kirin Hyoketsu is adding a bold new flavour choice to its range to meet the 55 percent of Aussie RTD drinkers who are seeking a strawberry option*.

Delivering authentic and delicious Japanese flavour, Kirin Hyoketsu Strawberry is light on everything else, with 117 calories and less than 1g of sugar per can.

The Australian market has become a stomping ground for Japanese-inspired innovation which is evident in the popularity of Japanese Chu-hi RTDs among young drinkers. While RTDs were once seen as a female-dominated category, IWSR data** shows a significant bounce back in male buyers with men emerging as the category’s most resilient and frequent consumers as 52 percent of male RTD buyers now consume the category at least once a week.

"Japanese influence is massive in Australia right now, with drinkers increasingly gravitating towards cleaner, more refreshing flavour profiles. Australians don't have to compromise anymore. We are reaching for RTDs that deliver bold delicious flavour, lower calories and a lighter drinking experience. By using our unique freezing technology, we’ve bottled a true, sun-ripened strawberry taste that is exactly the fresh, exciting choice drinkers have been calling for.”

Albertus Lombard, Brand Director – RTD at LION

The data also cements that Gen-Z and Millennials continue to lead the charge in this category, accounting for over two-thirds of RTD purchases. GenZennials are big on fruit flavour with tropical, citrus, summer and forest/red fruits listed as the top RTD preferences.

Kevin Vu Ha, Director at Vu Ha Hospitality and Japanese-inspired bar owner at Nomu Bar adds: “In my years of research into Japanese drinking culture, I’ve seen firsthand how the Japanese Chu-hi culture has graduated from a niche interest to a mainstream obsession. Australians, especially a new generation of male drinkers, are drawn to the precision and dryness of Japanese serves. They want drinks that are sessionable and sophisticated without the sugar-heavy aftertaste. Kirin Hyoketsu Strawberry brings that authentic Tokyo highball experience from the bar directly into the Aussie esky.”

Whether it’s the new go-to for a spontaneous social gathering or the first pick for a long weekend, one thing’s clear: strawberry is ready to be Australia’s new favourite taste.

Kirin Hyoketsu Strawberry is available now at $26.99 RRP for a 4-pack of 330ml cans at leading liquor retailers nationwide in-store and online.

For more information on Kirin Hyoketsu and its drink offerings, please visit www.kirinhyoketsu.com.au

References:
*IRI TDM RTD database MAT to Jan 26

**IWSR RTDs Strategic Study 2025

The post Kirin Hyoketsu Strawberry arrives from Japan to meet flavour demands of younger drinkers first appeared on Lion.

Enjoy some Little Creatures comfort at Fremantle’s freshest venue

brydie — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:47:48 +0000

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March 12, 2026

Enjoy some Little Creatures comfort at Fremantle's freshest venue

Little Creatures Fremantle has unveiled its stunning new venue after $10 million transformation

What you need to know

Little Creatures has officially opened the doors to its new venue following a $10 million transformation and the brand’s 25th birthday.
The new venue honours the heritage of Little Creatures alongside its exciting future.
Now open daily, the venue represents a boost to Fremantle’s tourism offering, providing locals and visitors an inviting place to enjoy some of the best views, beers and hospitality in WA.

Little Creatures today officially opened the doors to Fremantle’s freshest new venue following a $10 million transformation.

The new Little Creatures Fremantle offers an exciting experience for beer lovers at Western Australia’s pioneering craft brewery who recently celebrated its 25^th birthday year.

The venue’s new tank-to-tap system serves Little Creatures’ Pale Ale and Fremantle Lager direct from the brewery’s tanks via specially engineered flow-system meaning the taps will pour only the freshest beer direct from the source.

LION Field Sales Director Danny Connolly said: “For 25 years, Little Creatures has been at the forefront of Australia’s craft beer revolution.

"Our new venue honours this heritage, while creating an inspiring new and expanded space for Western Australia’s beer lovers to enjoy the next exciting chapters in the Little Creatures story."

Danny Connolly, WA Field Sales Director at LION

“The new Little Creatures Fremantle embraces the harbour like never before while offering beer lovers Pale Ale and Fremantle Lager direct from the tank. It would be tough to find a fresher beer anywhere else in Australia,” said Danny.

The Brewhouse previously the Great Hall serves as the venue’s new tasting room, offering tours, merchandise, and beer education experiences, while newly installed multi-award-winning chef Andrew Mann will launch two innovative dining concepts: Cherub Hall and The Loft.

Located at 42 Mews Road, next to the Brewhouse, on Fremantle’s stunning Fishing Boat Harbour, the revamped two-level venue’s design blends Fremantle’s coastal and industrial heritage, using local, sustainable timber to create a warm, rustic atmosphere that reflects Little Creatures’ commitment to quality and sustainability. The space features multiple dining and drinking zones, each offering a unique experience from casual harbour-side drinking to intimate dining areas.

Another highlight of the new venue is The Deck, a family-friendly outdoor area complete with a big screen TV showing sports making Little Creatures Fremantle the perfect destination for families and friends looking to unwind in style.

The venue represents a significant boost to Fremantle’s tourism offering, with the harbour-side location providing both locals and visitors an inviting place to enjoy some of the best views, beers and hospitality in WA.

Construction and design was managed by Dundee Rock, a 100% Aboriginal-owned builder known for delivering high-quality results while creating positive impact for Australia’s First People.

The venue is now open daily, continuing the Little Creatures tradition of bringing people together over exceptional craft beer in one of Australia’s most iconic brewing destinations.

The Fremantle venue is the latest in a string of Little Creatures venues across Perth including the International Airport, the Camfield and the recently opened Little Creatures Elizabeth Quay.

The post Enjoy some Little Creatures comfort at Fremantle’s freshest venue first appeared on Lion.

Guinness rolls out 1.2 million litres (2.1 million pints) to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Australia

brydie — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 05:05:05 +0000

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March 10, 2026

Guinness rolls out 1.2 million litres (2.1 million pints) to celebrate St Patrick's Day in Australia

Australians are raising their glasses in record numbers in one of the strongest years for Guinness yet.

What you need to know

Guinness is enjoying continued success in Australia, ahead of a main event for the brand: St Patrick’s Day
This year is set to be one of the biggest yet for Guinness, with more younger Aussies and women picking up a pint than ever before.

Australians are set to raise their glasses in record numbers this St Patrick’s Day, as Guinness continues its meteoric rise Down Under.

As the nation’s favourite stout takes centre stage from 17 March, LION, the official distributor of Guinness in Australia, has announced that more than 1.2 million litres of Guinness (equivalent to 2.1 million pints) will be ready to pour for the festivities across the country.

St Patrick’s Day may be the headline act, but Guinness is basking in the cultural spotlight, on track for one of its biggest years yet, with more than 23.5 million litres expected to be enjoyed nationwide (equivalent to over 41 million pints) which is 7 million more than last year.

Younger Aussies are embracing Guinness like never before, with nearly one in three (30%) 18-34 year olds now choosing the iconic brew, a significant increase from last year.

At the same time, more women are picking up a pint, with nearly 1 million new women trying Guinness in the past 12 months alone, marking the strongest demographic increase year-on-year.

“Guinness has always had a loyal following, but right now it’s reaching more Australians than ever, Gen Z and women driving a lot of its extraordinary momentum. The Guinness love is building year after year, and St Patrick’s Day is the ultimate celebration of that."

Amy Hiscock, Brand Director – Craft & Premium Beer at LION

Nationwide, Australians are making their case for the Guinness crown:

Victoria keeps its crown as Australia’s biggest Guinness-loving state with 5.1 million litres (8.9 million pints) enjoyed last year.
New South Wales follows closely with over 4.9 million litres (8.6 million pints) enjoyed over the past year, keeping the east coast rivalry well and truly alive.
Western Australia claims serious stout territory for just over 10% of the adult population, with nearly one in every five pints poured across the country enjoyed out west.
Queensland clocked 3.4 million litres (6.0 million pints) over the past year, while South Australia sold 1.3ml (2.3 million pints) and Tasmania 0.5ml (0.9 million pints)

From seasoned stout lovers to first-time sippers, Guinness continues to carve out a bigger place in Australian culture, making St Patrick’s Day 2026 one of the biggest yet.

Stay up-to-date on Guinness via Instagram: @guinness_au

The post Guinness rolls out 1.2 million litres (2.1 million pints) to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Australia first appeared on Lion.

Product recall for Steinlager Ultra Low Carb (24-pack) bottles.

digital@lionco.com — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 04:35:57 +0000

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March 4, 2026

Product recall for Steinlager Ultra Low Carb (24-pack) bottles.

Recall of Steinlager Ultra Low Carb (4.2% ABV) 24-pack bottles due to being mislabelled as Steinlager Alcohol Free.

What you need to know

LION is announcing a recall of Steinlager Ultra Low Carb 24-packs which may contain incorrectly labelled product inside.

If you have a clear bottle labelled Steinlager Alcohol Free*, it is not alcohol free. Steinlager Alcohol Free is only sold in green bottles, not clear bottles.

We have identified through a consumer complaint, an error in a production run resulting in clear bottles containing Steinlager Ultra Low Carb beer (ABV 4.2%) incorrectly labelled as Steinlager Alcohol Free, being sold in Steinlager Ultra Low Carb 24-packs. Cases may contain a mix of clear bottles with labels for both products.

It is very important to emphasise that populations and persons who should not consume alcohol, should not consume this product.

Anyone who may have consumed this product and is concerned about their health, should consult their health care professional. For advice on who should not consume alcohol refer to alcohol.org.nz or if you are unsure, consult your health care professional.

Through a nationwide recall procedure we are working with the food safety authorities and retailers to remove impacted product from the market as a priority.

The affected product can be identified by a Steinlager Alcohol Free front label displayed on a clear bottle and the best before date 21/10/2026 on the bottle above the label. The product correctly displays a Steinlager Ultra Low Carb back label with a pregnancy warning label, not for minors message, and the correct standard drinks. Steinlager Alcohol Free is only sold in green bottles not clear bottles.

We are recalling all 2,538 cases (24-packs only) of the potentially affected product.

Consumers can contact LION directly on 0800 835 554 and we will reimburse them.

We are working with customers to recall the product in any retail stores including supermarkets and liquor stores as well as wholesalers and hospitality venues.

Consumer safety is our highest priority, and we want to sincerely apologise to our customers and consumers for any distress or concern caused.

*Contains no more than 0.5% ALC/VOL

FAQ's

What’s happened?

Lion is recalling a batch of Steinlager Ultra Low Carb 24-packs which may contain incorrectly labelled product inside. We have identified through a consumer complaint, an error in a production run resulting in clear bottles containing Steinlager Ultra Low Carb beer ABV 4.2% incorrectly labelled as Steinlager Alcohol Free, being sold in Steinlager Ultra Low Carb 24-packs. Cases may contain a mix of clear bottles with labels for both products.

How was the issue identified?

We have identified this issue through a consumer complaint.

How can the product be identified?

The affected product can be identified by a Steinlager Alcohol Free* front label displayed on a clear bottle and the best before date 21/10/2026 on the bottle above the label. The product correctly displays a Steinlager Ultra Low Carb back label with a pregnancy warning label, not for minors message, and the correct standard drinks. Steinlager Alcohol Free is only sold in green bottles, not clear bottles.

*Contains no more than 0.5% ALC/VOL

What should consumers do?

If you receive any consumer enquiries, please direct them to our dedicated number 0800 835 554 and we will reimburse them directly.

What should retailers do?

Please remove all Steinlager Ultra Low Carb 24x 330ml bottles with the best before date (as above) from sale and put in a secure place. We ask that you also mark the outer packaging with a cross.
Beginning today, we will be in touch with all customers who have purchased affected product to arrange next steps.

What is the risk to consumers?

Consumer safety is our highest priority. It is very important to emphasise that populations and persons who should not consume alcohol, should not consume this product. We have initiated a nationwide recall procedure and we are working with the food safety authorities and retailers to remove impacted product from the market as a priority.

If a consumer is concerned what should they do?

Anyone who may have consumed this product and is concerned about their health, should consult their health care professional. For advice on who should not consume alcohol, refer to alcohol.org.nz or if you are unsure, consult your health care professional.

How much product is affected?

We are recalling all 2,538 cases (24-packs only) of the potentially affected product.

Contact Us

Get in touch to arrange your refund or give us a call on 0800 835 554

The post Product recall for Steinlager Ultra Low Carb (24-pack) bottles. first appeared on Lion.