AN iconic brewery that supplies beers across the UK has closed after more than 40 years, with the owner issuing an emotional statement.
The much-loved firm is shutting up shop in Somerset for the last time following a string of financial setbacks.
GettyThe brewery has been around for almost 45 years[/caption]
Exmoor Ales had been serving the local community for over four decades but managing director, Jonathan Price, said the company had faced “challenging times” in recent years.
Jonathan told SomersetLive: “It is shocking to have to close a brewery, but the environment for small brewers has been one of decline since Covid.
“I don’t know how many small breweries have closed down, but likely in the hundreds.”
In an emotional announcement the company boss thanked all his loyal customers for their “continuing support”.
He said: “Thank you for your continuing support and keeping a proud local business independent.”
Devastated customers shared their disappointment online calling the news a massive “shock”.
Another added: “Very sad indeed, but I fear not the last.”
Whilst a third commented: “Devastating”.
After struggling to survive on its own, the iconic brewery has decided to merge with Hogs Back Brewery in Surrey.
The reason for this, Jonathan said, is due to recent tax increases which have left the company unable to continue on its own.
He insists, though, that the move is a partnership – not a takeover – which means Exmoor will remain independent and preserve as many jobs as possible.
As part of the new arrangement, Exmoor will oversee production at Hogs Back Brewery to ensure its beers keep their same distinct taste.
Although this means the closure of their brewery in Somerset, Jonathan said he’s hopeful that the collaboration will help Exmoor reopen independently in the future.
The brewery has also begun plans for expansion, with a range of new lager, a low alcohol beer and IPA on the cards.
This comes as the hospitality industry has taken a beating following Rachel Reeve’s hike in National Insurance earlier this year.
Industry chiefs said the hike has led to a hiring freeze and rise in prices.
Ministers have also proposed new workers’ rights measures, adding more unwanted red tape for bosses.
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.
Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.
Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s closing branches.
Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.
Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.
Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans
Shadow Cabinet minister previously Andrew Griffith said: “Labour will kill off pubs and hospitality venues with the double whammy of their extreme union charter and jobs tax.
“Whether the price of your pint goes up or your local shuts down, there’ll only be one man to blame: Keir Starmer.”
More than 1.2 million hospitality workers are not currently eligible for employer national insurance contributions.
But after Chancellor Rachel Reeves lowered the threshold employers start paying NI from £9,100 to £5,000-a-year, they will owe it for 774,000 more workers.
Kate Nicholls, of UK Hospitality, said: “It is already forcing businesses to abandon investment, reduce headcounts and raise prices. It’s completely misguided to be punishing a sector that has such growth potential.”
Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
