To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any discussions she is having with independent breweries and local drinks producers, to develop opportunities to grow their business, both in Northern Ireland and for export.

Invest NI provides a range of support to local drinks producers to help them grow and expand into export markets. This includes financial assistance for capital investment and market development, innovation and skills development, and non-financial assistance such as specialist advice, introductions to international buyers and promotional activity through a network of business development teams across 25 global markets.

By way of example, over the last three financial years (2021/22-2024/25) Invest NI has provided support totalling £5.13m to the sector, leveraging almost £30m of investment.

In addition, InterTradeIreland welcomes applications from businesses in the north within the Beverage Manufacturing sector and has a range of programmes to support their business growth through innovation, collaboration and by increasing cross-border sales. Since 2023, Intertrade Ireland has supported 22 beverage manufacturers based in the North through its programmes and events.