Heritage and innovation, proofed for the future

For more than a century, Heriot-Watt University has helped shape brewing and distilling education, research and industrial practice. Our heritage dates back to 1903, when we became the first UK institution to offer formal brewing education; a milestone that helped set the standard for academic rigour, industry relevance and practical innovation in the sector. Since then, we have trained generations of brewers, distillers, scientists and industry leaders, many of whom have gone on to shape renowned brands, strengthen global supply chains and support the continued growth of premium spirits and craft brewing markets around the world. That heritage matters because the sector is once again at a defining moment. Businesses are facing complex pressures around energy, water, raw materials, emissions, skills, regulation and global competitiveness. Protecting what makes world-leading products and brands distinctive now depends on the ability to innovate with confidence. That is why Heriot-Watt is developing the Centre for Advanced Brewing and Distilling: a major new hub designed to help industry combine heritage with innovation, build resilience in a changing world and create new opportunities for growth. More than a building, the Centre will be a platform for collaboration, bringing together research, education, enterprise and industry expertise to help partners test ideas, develop talent and turn evidence-led innovation into practical progress. With support from partners, the Centre will build on Heriot-Watt’s unique heritage while creating the facilities, talent pipeline and innovation environment needed for the next century of progress.

"Our heritage gives us a responsibility to help shape what comes next for brewing and distilling."

Professor Richard A. Williams CBE FREng FTSE FRSE Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Heriot-Watt University