How have beer mats evolved?

You might not spend a lot of time thinking about beermats, which are a simple, utilitarian feature found in countless bars and pubs. Nevertheless, they have a long history, and that may explain why they have become highly collectable items.

Early history

The first recorded cardboard beermat appeared in 1880, in Germany, courtesy of a printer by the name of Friedrich Horn. The aim was to provide a more absorbent surface than traditional ceramic coasters, suitable for beer glasses that were heavy with condensation.

Improving technology

Germany continued to be the site of beermat innovation when Robert Sputh pioneered a wood pulp version, more durable than cardboard but still highly absorbent, in 1892. Many modern beermats are based on this design.

Branding

Beermats rapidly gained popularity when brewers started to use them as a branding opportunity. Company logos were joined by creative artwork, pieces of trivia, jokes and other promotional messages. Advertising continues to be a primary purpose of beermats.

Sustainability

More recently, consumers have become particularly concerned about environmental issues, and manufacturers have responded by crafting beermats from sustainably sourced or recycled materials.

Collectables

Collecting beer mats, a hobby known as tegestology, allows you to capture snapshots of advertising, art and humour from different decades. Others can be humorous novelties. Personalised beer mats, such as those at https://wedoprinting.ie/product/custom-printed-beermats/, can be given as gifts.

When you collect beermats, either because they have an interesting design or historical value, you are becoming part of a long and ever-evolving tradition that represents far more than a way to absorb condensation.