Bristol brewery admits defeat in face of soaring costs

A Bristol brewery has announced it has lost the battle against soaring costs.

Dawkins Ales announced on social media it is ceasing production amid spiralling costs.

The independent brewer’s owner Glen Dawkins said the company’s six pubs would remain open, but it will no longer brew its beer.

Glen Dawkins: “It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce the closure of the Dawkins Ales brewery.

“Despite the amazing efforts of the brilliant team we could not continue against the overwhelming headwinds of spiralling costs alongside post Covid recovery.

“I have seen many fellow brewers succumb and I am devastated to be joining them. Thank you to all our customers for their support as the brewery grew, helping us through recession and Covid. Good beers and good times were had and we will miss you all.”

The business was founded in 2002 and runs five pubs in Bristol as well as its own tap room at its brewery in Easton.

Dawkins and business partners Tony Arnese and Jane Dutson acquired Matthews Brewing Co and its production site in Timsbury just over 12 years ago.

Four years later the group established its brewery business as a separate arm of the company, supplying its own pubs and other venues in the area.