Molson Coors Announces Major Restructuring with Sharp's Brewery and Call Centre Closures
Molson Coors, the international brewing giant, has confirmed plans to shut down Sharp's Brewery in Cornwall and its UK national contact centre in Cardiff by the end of 2026. This strategic move places approximately 200 jobs in jeopardy as the company seeks to streamline operations and reduce costs.
Financial Unsustainability Drives Brewery Closure
The decision to close Sharp's Brewery, which Molson Coors acquired in 2011, comes after extensive efforts to make the site financially viable. Simon Kerry, UK and Ireland managing director at Molson Coors, stated that the closure was not taken lightly, emphasising that the company had invested over £20 million into the brewery since its purchase. Despite these investments, the Cornish site was deemed "no longer financially sustainable" within the national production network.
Sharp's Brewery, founded by Bill Sharp in Rock, Cornwall, in 1994, is renowned for its flagship Doom Bar beer and other brands like Atlantic and Sea Fury. The brewery currently employs 80 staff, who are now facing redundancy as part of the proposed changes.
Digital Shift Leads to Contact Centre Shutdown
In a parallel move, Molson Coors plans to close its UK contact centre in Cardiff, citing a significant shift in customer purchasing habits. The company reported that nearly 90% of orders from bars and pubs are now placed through its website, rendering the contact centre less essential. Customer service will be transitioned to online platforms and handled from the company's UK and Ireland headquarters in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire.
Mr Kerry explained that this decision reflects the broader digitisation journey of the business, aimed at adapting to evolving market trends. He assured that the closure is not a reflection on the performance of the contact centre teams, who have provided excellent service.
Consultation Process and Support for Affected Employees
The proposed closures are currently under consultation, with Molson Coors estimating that around 200 redundancies could result from these changes. The company has committed to supporting affected colleagues throughout this challenging period, offering assistance and resources to help them navigate the transition.
Molson Coors remains dedicated to the Sharp's brands and is exploring potential production partnerships to ensure their continued availability in the market. This restructuring is part of a larger effort to unlock efficiencies and cost-savings, positioning the company for future growth in a competitive industry.
