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 in for the last time following a string of financial setbacks.
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 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 thanked all his loyal customers for their “continuing support”;.
He said: “Thank you for your continuing support and keeping a proud local 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 .
The reason for this, Jonathan said, is due to recent 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 .
The brewery has also begun plans for expansion, with a range of new lager, a low alcohol and IPA on the cards.
This comes as the hospitality industry has taken a beating following Rachel Reeve’s hike in National earlier this year.
Industry chiefs saidhas led to a hiring freeze and rise in prices.
Ministers have also proposed new workers’ rights measures, adding more unwanted red tape for bosses.
Shadow Cabinet minister previouslysaid: “Labour will kill offand hospitality venues with the double whammy of their extreme union charter andtax.
“Whether the price of your pint goes up or your local shuts down, there’ll only be one man to blame:.”;
More than 1.2 million hospitality workers are not currently eligible for employer.
But after Chancellorlowered 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.”;
