Life @ EA
A spotlight on: Duncan Keith (EA 1992-2000)
Welcome to our new blog series, where we shine a spotlight on the work and lives of some of our Accies. Each blog will look at each Accies journey having left the Academy, and will provide a little insight into their work now and their memories of their time at school.
We caught up with Duncan Keith (EA 1992-2000), co-founder of the non-alcoholic brewery, Days Brewing Co, to talk about the non-alcoholic drinks industry and its future.
What is your current position and how did you get to have such a role?
I’m the co-founder of Days Brewing, we’re the UK’s only craft 0.0% brewed beer brand. I started the business with a friend after 10 years’ experience working at two of the UK’s leading, independent consumer goods brands (Genius Gluten Free and PROPER).
When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in the drinks industry, and why more specifically non-alcoholic drinks?
I’ve pretty much always worked in the food and drink industry, apart from a short stint working in finance. I love working with a tangible product and find a huge amount of satisfaction in the process of developing an idea through to seeing someone purchasing it in a shop or a bar.
What drew me towards non-alcoholic drinks is a love of beer and all the great moments beer brings but increasingly noticing the side effects of alcohol getting in the way of other aspects of my life. Once I realized this was a shared experience that lots of other people were having, I decided to pursue it full time.
What are you proudest achievements to date?
We have an initiative called “Days Duty” whereby we donate 2% of sales to organizations that promote mental health. We feel it’s important for the business to also have a positive impact on the wider community so I’m especially proud that we’ve been able to make donations to Mind and Mental Health UK in the short time since launching.
What do you hope to achieve with Days?
We want to change the perception of alcohol free beer and show people that it’s possible to have all the taste, refreshment and satisfaction of full strength beer without the side effects of alcohol. Historically that’s been really difficult to achieve but we’re already stocked in Michelin starred restaurants like The Kitchin in Leith; it’s really satisfying to see one of the best restaurants around embrace us like that.
How do you see your industry changing in the next 5-10 years?
A major trend that’s shaping the industry right now is health. Most people, especially younger generations, are trying to be healthier and the food and drink industry is already adapting to that. Even McDonalds’s is offering a vegan alternative to the Big Mac, 10 years ago that would have been unheard of!
Do you feel your time at the Academy prepared you/helped you for your career and if so how?
Definitely, we were very fortunate to have been given so many opportunities at the Academy. In any one day we could go from practicing pottery in art class, perfecting grammar in French class and then be at the bottom of a ruck in rugby practice. Everyone is encouraged to do their best and make the most of those opportunities and I can’t think of better preparation than that for a career in anything.
What are some of your summer drink recommendations?
I obviously have to say our Days Lager or Pale Ale are perfect summer refreshments!
Do you want to share your story? Email accies@edinburghacademy.org.uk
