Foster’s has branched out. The renowned lager company is now making a name for itself in the comedy industry.

The Foster’s Lager brand has had sponsorship deals with sport’s clubs and events in the past. More recently, though, the company has funded the comebacks of British comedy classics, as well as sponsoring the 2011 Edinburgh Comedy Awards and comedy on Channel 4.

Foster’s funded the comebacks of Alan Partridge and Vic and Bob earlier in 2011 and the shows proved to be a big hit on the Foster’s Funny website. Following the success of Partridge’s Mid Morning Matters and Vic and Bob’s Afternoon Delights, The Fast Show joined them in making a comeback on the internet.

The Fast Show reinvented sketch comedy in the mid-1990s with its unique style – sometimes fitting twenty-seven sketches into a thirty minute episode. Now, the show which became famous for catchphrases such as ”Scorchio!”, “Suit you, sir!” and “You ain’t seen me, right?” is back for a new online-only series which began on November 10.

Foster’s is clearly serious about comedy. The budget given to The Fast Show’s creators Paul Whitehouse and Charlie Higson was substantially more than anything the BBC could offer right now.

Comedy also plays a big part in Foster’s advertising campaign. Laid-back Aussies Brad and Dan have become a fixture during television ad breaks over the past 18 months, giving advice to British mates in a sticky situation. Now the lads have teamed up with actress and singer Holly Valance in the launch commercial for Foster’s Gold Beer. The “smart/casual” lager is already proving to be a hit with the younger generation.

Whether you are after a few drinks or a few laughs, Foster’s cater for your needs. All it needs to do now is to bring out some branded snacks and you can have yourself a Foster’s evening!