On the day we hear of a new small Hampshire nano-brewery joining the commercial world we also hear of plans to sell of Hampshire's largest brewery – Ringwood, on the edge of the New Forest.
Early successes
Ringwood Brewery was founded in the earliest days of the real ale resurgence in1978 by real ale pioneer Peter Austin who also built around 140 new breweries in the UK and overseas.
Ringwood's success led to its move in 1986 from
Minty's Yard to the present site on the edge of Ringwood, previously that of
Tunks Brewery.
Two years later further success came when
Old Thumper took the much coveted
Champion Beer of Britain award.
Old Thumper has become a worldwide name with the beer being brewed in the US by
Shipyard.
Further expansion took place and it was eventually sold to Marstons in 2007. It is currently owned by the Carlsberg Marston's Brewing Company (CMBC) and, while brewing has continued in Ringwood, much beer was also brewed in Burton upon Trent.
For sale
Today (7th June) CMBC has announced proposals that it intends to close its logistics operations in Ringwood and to sell the brewery and its brands, which include such famous beers as Old Thumper, Fortyniner and Razorback. This could have a serious effect on the staff employed as logistics is planned to move to other locations such as Cardiff, Tiverton and Farnborough.
There is also considerable concern over the site which has been the centre of speculation for residential development on several occasions.
Last autumn CMBC sold off the historic Jennings Brewery in Cockermouth with production also moving to Burton. One reason given was the fall in demand for cask ales during and following the pandemic.
The big questions?
Will the site at Ringwood be purchased to remain as a brewery?
Happy Pint has fond memories of supping Ringwood's 4X Porter while enjoying Mince pies with the brewer one wintry Christmas.
Let us hope that will still be possible.
