‘Unprecedented increases’ force Tatton Brewery to shut
Tatton Brewery in Knutsford will shut its doors after more than a decade of trading on 29 February.
A post shared on Facebook by owner Gregg Sawyer said: “After 14 years of brewing, we’ve come to the end of the road.
“With unprecedented increases in the cost-of-living, fuel prices, raw materials and many other factors, coupled with Gregg wishing to take a step back from the business due to family responsibilities, it is no longer viable for us to carry on.
“With a heavy heart we’re sad to announce that Tatton Brewery will cease trading on Thursday 29 February.”
Sector closures
This comes after data from the Society for Independent Brewers (SIBA) showed the number of active breweries at the start of the year had dropped from 2023 levels, at 1815 versus 1828 in January 2023.
The brewery’s last deliveries will go out until 29 February as usual, and trade customers can still place orders, as the brewery still has stock.
For retail customers, there is some stock on the online shop that can be collected directly from the brewery until it shuts down.
Gregg continued: “We’ve had a good run, with great times, great staff, great customers – and of course great beer.
'Truly saddened'
“We’re truly saddened to be sending out this statement, making us part of the current decline in the industry – but we’ve got to call it a day.
“Thanks to everyone who has supported us on our journey, we hope you’ve had some good times doing so.
“Get out there and get your last pints of Tatton Beer, raise a glass, and remember us fondly.”
Speaking on the closures, SIBA chief executive Andy Slee said there is still a lot to be done to protect breweries in a UK.
He said: “Trading has been incredibly tough for independent breweries and while the Government’s welcome introduction of draught relief for beer sold in pubs and taprooms last year was welcome, we would like to see it extended in 2024 to a significant 20% discount.”
