Major UK brewery closes after 40 years as Covid and tax hikes take their toll

A beloved brewery that has been a staple in a scenic UK town for over 40 years is sadly shutting its doors, delivering a devastating blow to the local community.

Exmoor Ales, which has been brewing its signature beers in Wiveliscombe, Somerset since 1979, finds itself cornered by the impacts of Covid, soaring inflation, and recent tax hikes, forcing it to outsource production to a facility in Surrey.

The company's managing director, Jonathan Price, is determined to "keep the brand alive" despite the dire circumstances. Mr Price expressed his concern about the fate of small breweries, with closures since the pandemic likely numbering in the hundreds.

Speaking to Somerset Live, he lamented, "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."

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In a heartfelt statement, the company head extended his gratitude to all the steadfast patrons for their "continuing support" and dedication to keeping a proud local business independent.

He gratefully remarked, "Thank you for your continuing support and keeping a proud local business independent.", reports .

Moving forward, Exmoor Ales will join forces with Hogs Back Brewery, an independent family-run brewery based in

Exmoor Ales' head brewer, Sanghrash, will now be at the helm of production over at Hogs Back Brewery, meticulously using the original recipes and yeast to keep the unique taste and quality of their beers consistent. Distribution of these cherished beverages will remain in Wiveliscombe, while Hogs Back will extend a helping hand with national sales efforts.

Despite the collaborative spirit, Jonathan from Exmoor has made it abundantly clear that independence remains key for them; this initiative is about partnership synergy, not corporate absorption.

In his commentary, Jonathan couldn't help highlight the bigger picture: "Foreign global brewers now represent 92% of the UK beer market and continue to march forward, well able to sustain the economic ups and downs. Recent tax increases, minimum wage increases and the new bottle tax weigh heavily on the smaller player."

The company has been on a mission to preserve as many jobs as possible in Exmoor, safeguarding roles across distribution in Wiveliscombe, including drivers, sales staff, and office personnel.

Yet, amidst these efforts, the unfortunate reality has hit home as three employees have faced job losses, a situation Mr Price described as "extremely tough".