Molson Coors Announces Closure of Sharp's Brewery and Cardiff Contact Centre
In a significant restructuring move, the US-Canadian drinks conglomerate Molson Coors has revealed plans to close Sharp's Brewery in Cornwall and its UK national contact centre in Cardiff by the end of 2026. This decision places approximately 200 jobs at risk across both sites, marking a challenging period for employees and the local communities.
Financial Unsustainability Drives Brewery Closure
The Carling brewer stated that the closure of the Cornish brewery, which was acquired by Molson Coors 15 years ago, was made only after exhaustive efforts to explore every alternative option to ensure the site's financial viability. Simon Kerry, UK and Ireland managing director at Molson Coors, emphasised the difficulty of this decision, noting that the brewery has been a significant part of their UK business for over a decade and a half.
"We have invested significantly in the site and the Sharp's brands over that time and have taken every step we can to try and avoid this outcome," Mr Kerry explained. "However, the site is no longer financially sustainable as part of our national production network." Since acquiring Sharp's in 2011, Molson Coors has invested more than £20 million into the brewery, but shifting market dynamics have rendered it unviable.
Digital Transformation Impacts Contact Centre
Simultaneously, the company plans to shut down its UK contact centre in Wales, attributing this move to a dramatic shift in customer behaviour. With nearly 90 per cent of orders from bars and pubs now being placed through its website, Molson Coors is adapting to a more digitally led purchasing environment. The closure reflects this evolution, as customer service will be handled online and from the group's UK and Ireland headquarters in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire.
Mr Kerry clarified that this decision is no reflection on the performance of the contact centre teams, stating, "The proposed closure of our national contact centre is in response to these changes in our customers' purchasing habits." He added that the company is committed to supporting affected colleagues through this transition.
Historical Context and Brand Future
Sharp's Brewery was founded by Bill Sharp in Rock, Cornwall, in 1994, and has since become a beloved institution in the region. Its flagship Doom Bar beer, along with other brands like Atlantic, Offshore, Sea Fury, Solar Wave, and Chalky's Bite, have garnered a loyal following. The brewery currently employs 80 staff, according to Molson Coors' website.
Despite the closure, Molson Coors affirmed its ongoing commitment to the Sharp's brand. The company is actively exploring potential production partnerships to maintain the brand's presence in the market. These proposed changes are part of a broader strategy to unlock efficiencies and cost-savings across its operations, with consultations currently underway.
Mr Kerry concluded, "This is clearly a very difficult time for our colleagues, and we will be doing everything we can to support our teams through this process." The closures underscore the broader challenges facing the brewing industry as it navigates financial pressures and rapid digital transformation.
