The revival and decline of the independent breweries in New South Wales, 1946-1961

The brewing industry in New South Wales underwent considerable concentration after the late nineteenth century. Contrary to this long-term trend, a revival of small-scale brewing occurred in the state in the late 1940s and early 1950s. This phenomenon is discussed in the context of a chronic postwar beer shortage. The subsequent decline of the small breweries is explained by the gradual overtaking of demand by the state's two major brewers, Tooth & Co. and Tooheys, and the consequent return of competition.