CORK’S FRANCISCAN WELL Brewery has announced it will be ceasing operations in the new year.

The closure will result in the loss of jobs for 15 members of staff.

The brewery’s owner Molson Coors said today the decision was “not taken lightly”. 

The affected staff members are being provided “with every support”, Molson Coors added, and said that despite the Franciscan Well brand and brewery receiving heavy investment, it has been forced to consider its position in the current economic climate. 

“Despite great work from the team, in the face of a challenging craft beer category and other economic pressures impacting our customers and consumers, it has not been possible to grow the brands to the level needed to sustain the brewery as part of our UK and Ireland production network.”

The brewery’s owner said it is seeking redeployment for its displaced employees “wherever possible”. It also said it is open to conversations with interested parties regarding the future of the brewery and brands.

The bar is a separate entity and will remain operating.

Franciscan Well Brewery produces craft beers Chieftain IPA, Rebel Red, Well Hazy, Shannon Stout, and four other beers in its Docklands series. Its Docklands series was launched at the beginning of 2024.

Founded in 1998 by Shane Long, the brewery was purchased by Canadian-American multinational Molson Coors in 2013.

Molson Coors is the owner of brands Coors, Fosters, Peroni, Miller, Madrí, and Blue Moon amongst many others.