Joseph Holt Trailblazer Glasses

I was commissioned by the historic, family-run Joseph Holt Brewery (est. 1849) to design a series of four illustrated pint glasses for their flagship ‘Trailblazer’ stout.

The brief called for a set of "highly desirable" glassware that celebrated the brewery’s deep-rooted Manchester heritage through a bold, contemporary aesthetic.

Each design chronicles the life of a key "Trailblazer" from the Holt family. This includes founder Joseph Holt, who established the brewery in the heart of Cheetham Hill, and Sir Edward Holt I, the former Lord Mayor of Manchester (1907–1909).

The illustrations weave together specific civic achievements; such as Sir Edward’s pivotal role in the Haweswater Scheme to bring fresh water to the city, with the family’s significant philanthropic legacy, including the founding of the Holt Radium Institute (now part of the world-renowned Christie Hospital).

By synthesising over 175 years of brewing and civic history into a cohesive visual narrative, I created a series that bridges the gap between historical education and modern brand merchandise.