Doom Bar maker Sharp’s Brewery in Cornwall to be closed by US owner

The Guardian World

by Alex Daniel

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Sharp’s Brewery, a renowned Cornish brewery known for producing Doom Bar ale, is set to close under its US owner Molson Coors. The closure of the brewery in Rock, Wadebridge, along with a national call center in Wales, has been deemed "no longer financially sustainable" by the drinks company. This decision casts uncertainty over the future of the popular beer brand and puts approximately 200 jobs at risk. The brewery, which has been operating for over two centuries, has played a significant role in Cornwall’s brewing history and culture. The closure marks a blow to both the local economy and the wider brewing industry. Molson Coors cited financial challenges as the primary reason for shutting down these operations, signaling a shift in their business strategy. The decision also raises concerns about the impact on regional employment and supply chains. Sharp’s Brewery had been a key employer in Cornwall, contributing significantly to the area's economic landscape. The loss of jobs is expected to affect not only brewery staff but also suppliers and businesses reliant on the facility. While Molson Coors has yet to provide specific details on how the closure will proceed or what steps will be taken to mitigate its effects, the move highlights the challenges faced by breweries in a competitive global market. This decision underscores broader trends in the beverage industry, where companies are increasingly prioritizing profitability over heritage and local ties. The closure of Sharp’s Brewery is not just a local story but also reflects larger economic forces at play in the world of brewing. For readers interested in global business or politics, this news sheds light on how multinational corporations make strategic decisions that can have far-reaching consequences for communities and industries alike.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/25/2026