InBrief

Carlsberg may shut Alloa depot

Carlsberg may shut its Scottish distribution centre in August this year. Workers at the site are said to be "shocked" by the decision, which could see all 58 jobs lost. "We are deeply disappointed at the behaviour of Carlsberg UK in announcing the planned closure without any warning whatsoever," said a member of trade union Unite. Carlsberg is blaming the planned closure on a decline in the quantity of its own beers and contracted work from other companies in Scotland.

Cobra acquires first brewery

Cobra, the London-based brewer, has acquired a controlling stake in a north-east India brewery. Cobra currently contracts out its brewing in the UK, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands and five further locations in India. The brewer said that the acquisition would help Cobra to increase and manage capacity in India.

Pubcos triumph at Springboard

Charles Wells and Mitchells & Butlers (M&B) have both received recognition at the annual Springboard Awards for Excellence. The 17 awards on offer are given to companies that have made a contribution to attracting and retaining employees in the hospitality industry. Charles Wells picked up the Recruitment award and M&B took home the Best Initiative to Attract People into Management award.

Station Porter scoops top award

Wickwar Station Porter from Gloucestershire has been named the Supreme Champion Winter Beer of Britain 2008 by Camra judges. The 6.1% abv porter is described as a rich, smooth, dark ruby-brown ale. The beer starts with a roast malt coffee, chocolate and dark fruit flavour and finishes with a spicy, bitter-sweet taste. The silver award went to Robinsons Old Tom, and the bronze to Hop Back Entire Stout.

Blossom Hill launches wine font

Wine company Blossom Hill is to launch a new draught wine font to the UK pub and bar industry. The font will dispense wines at the correct temperature and offer varieties such as Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and white Zinfandel from 10-litre vacuum-sealed bags. The new system is to be installed and maintained by a dedicated national support team.