GLUG26: Successful fourth edition confirms its status as a meeting place for Swiss beverage production
News General news
GLUG26, the leading meeting place for brewers and beverage production in Switzerland, confirmed its status as a central industry platform with its fourth edition. On February 5 and 6, 2026, a total of 113 exhibitors (once again fully booked) presented their products and services at the Alte Reithalle Aarau and welcomed 791 visitors. The variety of products and services ranged from raw materials and production and filling equipment to packaging solutions such as bottles, cans, and PET bottles. Labels, cardboard packaging, and operating materials for logistics and hygiene also attracted a great deal of interest.
A particular highlight was the 4th GLUG Brewer Challenge, which included the selection of the 2026 Aargau Canton Beer. Beers and, for the first time, kombuchas were evaluated by a ten-member expert jury of experienced and award-winning beer sommeliers and experts; and for the first time, the assessment was supplemented by a six-member public jury.
In the non-alcoholic beer category, Brauerei Oerlikon AG won with Phantom, ahead of St. Laurentius Craft Beer AG (Clear Your Mind) and Brauerei Baar AG (Alkoholfrei Feinherb). In the Swiss malt beers category, Braufabrik Baden (Altbier) won ahead of Degenbier (Kobra) and Brauerei Seebueb (Uswanderer). In the kombucha category, Jungle Brothers Kombucha (Hibiscus & Hops) came out on top, ahead of Dr. Brad's Fermentery (Peaflower Lime) and Komeo AG (Ginger Lemon). LägereBräu AG from Wettingen was named Aargau Canton Beer 2026 with its Lager Hell – a light, fresh, and pleasantly mild beer with subtle hop notes, a gentle malt flavor, and a slightly tart finish. The award-winning canton beer will be served at selected official events.
The GLUG26 supporting program complemented the trade fair with informative presentations and lively panel discussions, which were very well received by participants. The networking evening with musical entertainment provided around 300 guests with an opportunity to exchange ideas and deepen business relationships.
With its successful fourth edition, GLUG confirms its status as an established and relevant meeting place for Swiss beverage production – with a clear focus on quality, innovation, and networking.
GLUG27 continues to focus on innovation, networking, and promoting the beverage industry in Switzerland and will take place on February 11 & 12, 2027, at the Alte Reithalle in Aarau.
