The global brewer said the move would unlock efficiencies and cost-savings to fuel its long-term growth.
While the proposals are still subject to consultation, it could result in around 200 redundancies across the Molson Coors UK&I business.
Molson Coors asserted it remained committed to the Sharp’s brand, which could close at the end of 2026, adding the announcement comes after exploring every alternative option to make the site financially sustainable.
Since acquiring Sharp’s, which is known for its Doombar and Twin Coast beers, in 2011, Molson Coors has invested more than £20m in the brewery to expand capacity, upgrade equipment, support innovation and strengthen its portfolio.
Molson Coors said it is in the process of exploring a number of alternative production routes, including the possibility of producing Sharp’s beers in partnership.
Significant investment
Molson Coors managing director UK & Ireland Simon Kerry said: “The proposed closure of Sharp’s Brewery has not been an easy decision for us to make.
“It has been a significant part of our UK business for 15 years, with an exceptional and committed team who take such huge pride in their craft.
“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. However, the site is no longer financially sustainable as part of our national production network.”
With almost 90% of Molson Coors on-trade customer orders now being placed through its e-commerce site My Molson Coors, the company is also proposing to close its UK National Contact Centre (NCC) in Cardiff by the end of 2026.
Commenting on the NCC proposal, Kerry added: “As our customers’ purchasing habits have become more digitally led, we have evolved our business as part of our digitisation journey.
Difficult choices
“The proposed closure of our National Contact Centre is no reflection on the brilliant work of our teams, but is in response to these changes. We remain committed to providing the highest levels of service to our customers and these proposals do not change that.”
The managing director said by making “difficult choices” now, the business can unlock “greater opportunities” for the future.
“As a brewer with more than 200 years of experience, we understand that long-term success requires decisive action in response to market evolution”, Kerry continued.
“These proposals are founded on building on our strong foundations and reshaping our business for growth.
“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.”
