UK: Southwold brewer Adnams confirms job losses are likely

Southwold brewer Adnams confirmed on January 25 that it is conducting a review which is likely to lead to a “small number” of job losses Archant Regional posted on January 26.

But the company said that its current investment programme in new brewing and distribution facilities underlined its confidence in the long-term future of the business. “At various points throughout its history Adnams has taken a thorough review of activities to ensure its position amongst cask beer market leaders,” said commercial director Andy Wood yesterday.

“These are challenging times for any business involved in the leisure industry and I have no doubt that the healthiest companies of the future will be examining their current business practices right now.

“Business review is a constant process at Adnams - inertia is never an option - and the current process has highlighted a requirement for change that will unfortunately result in a small number of job losses. We are consulting with our employees to minimise the impact,” he added.

Adnams employs about 300 people across its business which, besides its brewery and pub estate, includes the Swan and Crown hotels in Southwold and a wine merchants business.

The company has invested heavily in increased fermentation capacity in recent years, to meet demand from successful national advertising campaigns, and work has just started on installing new equipment to improve efficiency in the rest of the brewing process.

In addition, the company is building a new distribution centre on the edge of Southwold which is intended to set new standards for minimising environmental impacts.

“Adnams is making significant investment in developing its brewing facilities on the current site and building a state-of-the-art distribution centre on the outskirt of Southwold,” said Mr Wood yesterday. “Such investment demonstrates our confidence and commitment to the long-term success of Adnams plc.”

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