the
South West's biggest brewery, was to close also, writes
Gene Bailey.Usher's dates from 1824, and won back its independence following a management buy-out in 1991 after being swallowed-up by Watney's (later Grand Metropolitan) in 1960.
A management buy-out of the brewery from parent company, InnSpired, has been unsuccessful, but the brand names, such as Summer Madness, Autumn Frenzy and Founder's Ale, will remain, but will be brewed by Thamas Hardy in Dorchester and Burtonwood in Cheshire. This is another example of a company forsaking its brewing heritage to concentrate on retailing!
The
lastest take-over to close a brewery occurred on 14th April, when
it was announced that Hall and Woodhouse of Blandford, Dorset
has suceeded in its bid for King & Barnes of Horsham, West
Sussex. At the end of 1999, a hostile bid was made for King &
Barnes by Shepard Neame of Faversham, Kent. King & Barnes
reaction to this bid was 'laid-back' by anyone's measure, as they
were certain their shareholders would not sell. By the end of
January K & B knew they were in trouble and were shouting
for help. Then in rode Hall and Woodhouse, otherwise known as
Badger Brewery, with a successful offer and immediately announced
plans to close the Horsham brewery. K & B brands are being
tranferred to Blandford once taste matching is complete.