Major brewery to close putting jobs at risk as firm blames ‘fierce competition & cost cutting’ for devastating blow
A MAJOR brewery is calling last orders on one of its most famous sites – putting skilled jobs at risk.
Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Co will close world-renowned Wychwood Brewery, famed for Hobgoblin Ale.
The factory in Witney, Oxfordshire, will shut in November when there is a break clause on the lease with the site’s owner.
It’s six staff – who have a combined 100 years of brewing experience – face an uncertain future.
Hobgoblin ales, as well as Wychwood brands Firecatcher and Dry Neck beers, will be brewed at CMBC’s other sites.
CMBC said it will consult the six remaining staff and try to find them jobs elsewhere within the business where possible.
Tony Goulding, chair of Oxfordshire’s Campaign for Real Ale said the closure was “nothing short of a tragedy”.
Paul Davies, CEO of CMBC, said the company have “tremendous pride” in Wychwood and it’s team.
But he said cuts were needed to achieve “greater efficiency and productivity”.
He added: “Our number one focus is giving them all the support they need as we begin the consultation on this proposal.
“The UK ale market is an incredibly competitive space, and combined with a turbulent economic outlook for the UK provides for a challenging environment for industry to navigate.”
Earlier this year the firm announced plans to sell Ringwood Brewery in Hampshire, saying its location in a residential area made expansion a challenge.