Wychwood Brewery Closes Amid Shrinking UK Ale Market: CMBC Focuses on Efficiency
Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC) attributes Wychwood Brewery’s shutdown to the dwindling cask ale market.
“In the face of economic strain and a shrinking UK cask ale market, we’re strategically directing our investments for a sustainable ale business,” a CMBC spokesperson clarified.
Coinciding with a lease break option with the site’s landlord, CMBC stated, “Leveraging the lease break clause for Wychwood allows us to streamline our brewing operations for enhanced efficiency and growth.”
The spokesperson reassured, “Sales of Wychwood brands like Hobgoblin will continue uninterrupted.”
Although the brewery in Witney, Oxfordshire, will keep running in the near term, fans mourn its closure as the end of an era.
CMBC CEO Paul Davies said, “We recognize the emotional attachment to Wychwood Brewery. Our immediate priority is supporting our team during this transition phase.”
Regarding the site’s future, the spokesperson said, “The landlord alone will decide what comes next for the property.”
Beers like Hobgoblin will still be produced within the CMBC network, including at Marston’s Brewery in Burton-on-Trent.
CMBC confirmed ongoing support for the six employees at Wychwood during this period of change and is exploring internal redeployment options.
