Exmoor Ales Closes Somerset Brewery, Moves Production to Surrey

Exmoor Ales, an award-winning Somerset brewery established over 40 years ago, has closed its Wiveliscombe brewing facility after facing prolonged financial difficulties due to the pandemic, rising inflation, and increased taxes. The closure resulted in the loss of three jobs, but most sales and distribution roles will remain in Somerset. To preserve the brand and protect remaining jobs, Exmoor Ales has entered a partnership with Surrey-based Hogs Back Brewery, which will now handle production using Exmoor’s original recipes and yeast. Managing director Jonathan Price emphasized that this is a partnership, not a takeover, and that the Exmoor Ales brand will remain independent. The move reflects broader industry challenges, with many small breweries closing as global brewers dominate the UK market, limiting opportunities for local producers. Despite the setback, Exmoor Ales plans to expand its range and explore new markets while hoping to eventually return brewing operations to Somerset.