Heineken spotlights community pub rescue

Heineken has expanded its global For the Love of Pubs platform with the launch of a documentary that highlights efforts to protect community pubs. The initiative underscores the brewer’s long-term commitment to supporting pub culture and social connection at a time when closures continue across Ireland and the UK.

The campaign opens with The Pub That Refused To Die, directed by Irish filmmaker Gar O’Rourke. The film premiered on 28 February 2026 at the Dublin International Film Festival and tells the story of 26 residents of Kilteely who came together to save their last remaining pub.

A community effort on the big screen

The documentary follows the villagers’ attempt to preserve Aherns, their local pub, after long-time publican Noreen Ahern could no longer keep the business open. Facing the loss of their only shared social space, 26 locals decided to buy, reopen and relaunch the venue under a new name, despite having no prior hospitality experience.

When Heineken learned of the initiative, the company provided business guidance, staff training through its Heineken Ahhh-cademy programme and operational support to help the group reopen and establish a sustainable future. The pub has since resumed its role as a community hub.

The story reflects a broader trend. Ireland has lost an estimated 2,100 pubs between 2005 and 2025, while in 2025 alone 375 pubs closed across England, Wales and Scotland—almost one every day. Sociologists often describe pubs as third places, highlighting their role in fostering connection beyond home and work.

Taking the message on the road

Following its premiere, Heineken will screen the film in rural communities across Ireland throughout March. Each event will include a live Q&A with members of the Kilteely ownership group and a local Heineken representative, positioning the documentary as both inspiration and practical guidance.

To support communities considering similar action, Heineken is also launching an online resource hub offering tools, advice and case studies aimed at prospective publicans and local groups.

Gar O’Rourke, award-winning Irish Filmmaker: "When I first heard the story of the Kilteely locals coming together to save their pub, I knew it would be a special film to make. It’s a true underdog story, rooted in community, resilience and quiet determination. When Heineken reached out about helping bring the story to life, it felt like a natural fit given their long-standing connection to pubs and the communities around them. Spending weeks on the ground with the people of Kilteely, the real reward became the process itself - working directly with a community that met us with warmth, generosity and great humour. That spirit runs through the film, and it’s what ultimately makes this story so powerful."

Nabil Nasser, Global Head, Heineken: "Pubs have always been where real social connection happens, and that’s something we’ve championed at Heineken® for generations. The Pub That Refused To Die is a powerful reminder of what communities stand to lose when these spaces vanish and what becomes possible when people come together to protect them. Through initiatives like Pub Museums, Pub Succession, and Starring Bars, we’ve shown our long standing commitment to supporting the places that keep social life alive. We were proud to support the villagers of Kilteely and help hero their story, one that celebrates the simple, human beauty of social connection, and the pubs at the heart of it."

Bruno Bertelli, Chief Executive Officer & Chief Creative Officer LePub Worldwide: "What makes pubs truly special is the community that gathers there, the connections they forge, and the stories they share. The Kilteely 26 reminded us that protecting these spaces is about more than business—it’s about safeguarding the heart of that community. Through For the Love of Pubs, we aim to inspire and equip others to take action, showing that creativity and collaboration can breathe new life into what matters most."

The expanded platform builds on Heineken’s long-standing involvement in Ireland’s pub sector, combining storytelling with practical support as the company seeks to help safeguard the future of community pubs.

www.theheinekencompany.com

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