Susan Kramer and Serge Lourie Seek Talks on Stag Brewery Closure

10.57.00am GMT Tue 6th Jan 2009

[Jan 06]: • SUSAN Kramer MP is to seek an urgent meeting with officials from Anheuser-Busch InBev to discuss the proposed closure of the Stag Brewery in Mortlake.

Anheuser-Busch InBev has today announced that it is consulting with staff and unions on plans to close the Stag Brewery site [which currently brews Budweiser], meaning around 300 job losses. Susan Kramer commented:

"I am extremely disappointed at this news, and will be seeking a meeting with the Brewery urgently to find out if there is any way to keep the site open and prevent these job losses. It is clear that businesses big and small are being hit by the economic crisis, but it is a real worry to see so many jobs potentially wiped out in one fell swoop. I am certain that the Government's policy of allowing supermarkets to heavily discount alcohol is having a negative effect on the brewing industry, and hitting brewers hardest who primarily sell to pubs. The Brewery at Mortlake is part of our industrial heritage in this part of London, and it will be a sad day for our area if it closes."

Council Leader, Serge Lourie, has also called on the owners of the Brewery to reconsider their decision to close it. Speaking at a meeting in Twickenham discussing plans for the Richmond Business Summit on 21 January, he said:

"This proposal is a bitter blow for the borough. The Stag Brewery has been in operation since the 15th century and is one of the last manufacturers locally. I have contacted the owners asking for a meeting so that we can discuss their proposal and what can be done on this important site. I also hope to speak to the trade union, Unite, to see if there is anything the Council can do to get the decision changed"

Related Link:

• Mortlake brewery to close [beer-pages.com (Roger Protz), Jan 10]