On 31 August 2026, thieves stole 880 barrels of Guinness — about 70,000 pints — from an industrial estate in Runcorn, Cheshire. CCTV reportedly shows two men, and police say they are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to recover the kegs and the two HGV trailers. The initial loss was estimated at roughly $155,000, rising to about $276,000 (£205,000) with the trailers included. Authorities urge the public and vendors to report any suspicious offers or information.
Police Probe 'Brazen' Runcorn Heist After 70,000 Pints Of Guinness Stolen
Vehicle involved in the theft
On 31 August 2026, officers in Runcorn, Cheshire, responded after thieves drove off with 880 barrels of Guinness — roughly 70,000 pints — in what police have described as a "brazen heist." The stolen beer was initially valued at about $155,000, rising to roughly $276,000 (£205,000) when the value of the two HGV trailers is included.
Diageo, the maker of Guinness, has previously noted the brand's popularity in Great Britain, underscoring the scale of the loss.
How the Theft Happened
According to Cheshire Police, the barrels were stored in two HGV trailers at an industrial estate. At about 7:45 a.m. a white lorry entered the yard, coupled with one of the trailers and drove off toward the Mersey Gateway. Around ninety minutes later, a second lorry repeated the action with the other trailer and departed in a different direction.
Investigation Underway
Detective Sergeant McClatchey said officers are following multiple lines of inquiry and will continue working until the stolen kegs and trailers are recovered and those responsible are arrested. "It is famously said that 'Guinness is good for you,'" he added. "But that is only the case when it has been bought and paid for."
Police confirmed CCTV captured images of two men believed to be involved and urged anyone with information to come forward. Officers have also warned trade outlets that the suspects may try to sell the beer on, and asked vendors to report any suspicious offers or approaches.
Public Reaction
The theft has attracted attention online for the logistical oddity of stealing such a bulky commodity. Content creator Sarah Beth Terry posted a YouTube short highlighting the difficulty of moving large volumes of beer, quipping: "Stealing beer isn't exactly like stealing diamonds — nobody slips 4,000 cases of Guinness in their bra and strolls through the self-checkout."
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Cheshire Police with details or footage that might assist the inquiry.
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