GUINNESS

In 1759, a young Arthur Guinness signed a 9000-year lease for a disused brewery at St.James’ Gate in Dublin, where production began in earnest of “the black stuff”.  Arthur went on to father 21 children, “brewers droop” wasn’t an issue!

It’s often said that Guinness has one of the best marketing teams in the business. They have conceived so many classic posters, designs and ad campaigns. It’s no wonder the iconic Irish stout has managed to go global.

It also helps that it tastes good! It is made from natural ingredients with no artificial additives. They had an ad campaign for many years saying “Guinness is good for you”, pesky advertising regulators didn’t approve for some reason.

Today, tours to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin top the polls on the most popular tourist activity in Ireland’s capital, testament to how great an impact campaigns like “My Goodness, My Guinness” have had across the world.

And it really is across the world. One of my favourite Guinness facts is that it is so popular in Nigeria and considered a bit of an unofficial “national drink” that Nigerians sometimes are surprised that Guinness is sold in Ireland! In fact, Nigeria is home to the first Guinness brewery outside of Ireland and the UK.  It’s all down to one of Arthur’s 21 offspring, Arthur Guinness II, who connected with businesses moving across the world with the British Empire.

In 2007, Africa became the second-largest market for Guinness in the world after the United Kingdom, knocking Ireland down to third place.

I suppose whether you’re in Lagos, Letterkenny or Los Angeles you know the name “Guinness”. That’s quite the legacy.  See our website for a wide range of Guinness-themed gifts to suit all budgets. From Guinness pens and key chains to Guinness mugs, glasses and bar towels, there’s something on tap for everyone.