Last orders for beer name

MARBLE Beers has been urged to rename its iconic product ‘Pint’ because the cans it comes in aren’t actually a pint.

The brewery started selling the ale, introduced in 2007, in 500ml containers last summer - 68ml less than a pint.

A customer complained to Manchester council last year, prompting Trading Standards bosses to contact the brewery to suggest it changes the name to avoid any misunderstanding for the public.

The company said it would change the name to ‘satisfy the bureaucratic needs,’ but has asked for clarification about the draft product. Owner Jan Rogers added: “We’re a small company that doesn’t have the time or resources to get involved in a legal battle about this matter.

“We are seeking clarification on the draught version [of the beer] in all measures.”

‘Pint’ is the brewery’s most famous and best-selling beer.

Jan founded the microbrewery in 1997.

It now has three pubs in Manchester, in the Northern Quarter, Chorlton and on Rochdale Road.

Manchester beer blogger Jim Cullen told the M.E.N. he thought it was a ‘strange’ development.

He said: “It just strikes me as very strange.

“Judging on the comment by the council, it has happened because of one complaint.

“Now Marble will have to go to great lengths to change the packaging and branding - probably at a substantial cost. They are a key, iconic Manchester brewery who produce great beer.

“People should be supporting small local businesses like theirs.”

The council’s neighbourhoods chief Nigel Murphy said: “I understand this issue may appear trivial, but the name of the beer could lead to a small misunderstanding.

“I am certain that Marble Breweries in no way intend to deceive, though we did receive a complaint and so contacted them to offer advice.”

The brewery’s communications boss Hannah Davidson said: “It has been called ‘Pint’ now for quite some time, so it seems like an okay time to change it.

“We know the name isn’t going to affect its great taste.”