Greene King to close Kimberley brewery after Hardys & Hansons takeover

Greene King has announced it will close the Hardys & Hansons (H&H) Kimberley brewery in Nottingham at the end of the year.

Rooney Anand, chief executive of Greene King, said today that a review of the H&H business had shown the quality of the pub estate acquired, but there was no economic case for continuing brewing at Kimberley. 

The brewery, which produces around 43 million pints a year, or 7,000 an hour, dates from 1832.

Anand said: “Greene King invests more in cask beer than any other brewer but, to remain viable, returns have to be delivered on investment. The best ways to ensure Hardys and Hansons’ brands continue to flourish in a challenging ale market is to transfer brewing to Bury St Edmunds.”

H&H beers include Dark Mild, Cool and Olde Trip. As a result of the move Greene King said 80 jobs were at risk.

However, the company intends to continue its cellar service and distribution from Kimberley.

In June,Greene King said it expected to make savings of £3m in the first year, growing to £5m as it integrates the business into its distribution network.

Hardys & Hansons approves Greene King Acquisition terms >>

Pub Company Greene King buys Hardys & Hansons >>

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By Chris Druce

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