Vintage original Guinness metal fridge magnets
Some minor age related wear
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8 cm tall
6 cm wide
Approx
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Price is for both
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The Story of Guinness: From a Bold Lease to a Global Icon
1759: A Remarkable Beginning
The Guinness story begins with Arthur Guinness, a determined brewer who signed one of the most famous business agreements in history. On 31 December 1759, he leased the St James's Gate Brewery in Dublin for 9,000 years at £45 per year.
At first, Guinness brewed traditional ales. But by the late 18th century, Arthur shifted focus to a dark beer known as porter, which was popular with London’s working class.
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19th Century: From Porter to Stout
By the early 1800s, Guinness had refined its signature style—stout porter, eventually shortened to simply stout. Key developments included:
Export growth: Guinness was shipped to Britain, Europe, and as far as the Caribbean and Africa.
1821: Introduction of the famous Extra Superior Porter (ancestor of today’s Guinness Extra Stout).
1860s–1880s: Guinness became one of the largest breweries in the world.
1886: The company was listed on the London Stock Exchange, one of the biggest IPOs of its time.
The brewery was also known for progressive worker benefits—housing, pensions, and healthcare—unusual for the Victorian era.
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20th Century: Innovation and Iconic Advertising
The 1900s saw Guinness become a true global brand.
Technical innovation
1959: Introduction of nitrogen gas to create the smooth, creamy head that defines a modern Guinness pint.
Later innovations included the widget in cans (1980s), allowing draught-style Guinness at home.
Legendary marketing
The famous slogan: “Guinness is Good for You.”
The beloved toucan and animal posters created by artist John Gilroy in the 1930s.
Strong links with Irish identity and heritage worldwide.
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Guinness Today
Guinness is now part of the global drinks group Diageo (formed in 1997 after mergers involving Guinness plc). The beer is brewed in nearly 50 countries and sold in over 120.
The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin has become one of Ireland’s most visited attractions, celebrating the brand’s history, brewing craft, and cultural impact.
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Why Guinness Matters (Beyond Beer)
For collectors and historians—especially in the world of vintage and advertising ephemera—Guinness holds special appeal:
Early bottles, labels, and barware
Enamel signs and pub mirrors
1930s–1960s advertising posters
Branded tins, trays, and promotional items
Its strong visual identity and long history make Guinness one of the most collectible beverage brands in the world.
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