ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the position of traditional beers in a global market economy. It focuses on the case of Geuze and Kriek, traditional beers characterized by a brewing process that is embedded within the Belgian regions of Zennevallei and Pajottenland. The chapter focuses on primary and secondary data collected in the framework of the European programme on innovation of the rural economy in Flanders. The Belgian brewery industry and national beer consumption were used, as well as information from in-depth interviews with experts from public institutes and entrepreneurs from the traditional breweries. It outlines the policy perspective with respect to traditional food products. The chapter describes the economic situation of the Belgian brewery industry. It details the general tendencies with respect to beer consumption. The chapter discusses the strengths and weaknesses of common legislation the evidence of innovation in traditional breweries. It outlines the future perspectives of traditional beers, and indicates the policy implications of the research.
