Adnams Slashes Alcohol Content in Key Beverages

Adnams, a prominent UK brewery, has confirmed significant reductions in the alcohol by volume (ABV) for four of its most popular products. This strategic adjustment affects Ghost Ship Pale Ale, Southwold Bitter, Wild Wave English Cider, and Broadside.

Specific Product Adjustments

Ghost Ship Pale Ale has seen its ABV decrease from 4.5% to 4.1%. Wild Wave English Cider’s alcohol content has been lowered from 5% to 4.5%. For Broadside, the 500ml bottles now contain 6% ABV, down from 6.3%.

Southwold Bitter has also undergone modifications. Previously, it was 4.1% ABV in bottle and can, and 3.7% in keg and cask. Following the changes, both formats now stand at 3.4% ABV.

Rationale Behind the Changes

The adjustments are reportedly linked to the UK’s alcohol duty system, which imposes charges on drinks at 3.5% ABV and above. This system levies approximately £22 per litre of pure alcohol.

Adnams has expressed confidence that the flavor profiles of their beers will remain unaffected, attributing this to the skill of their brewing team. The brewery also stated that these changes are in line with evolving consumer preferences and present an opportunity to reinvest in brand growth.

Industry Challenges Emerge

These developments occur amidst a challenging period for the wider brewing industry. Reports indicate that one brewer has entered administration, while another has been forced into liquidation.

Tottenham-based Redemption Brewing Company has appointed FRP Advisory as administrators. The family-run brewery, with a century of history, is now seeking a potential buyer. Operations are continuing while the administration process unfolds.

Separately, Glasgow-based Overtone Brewing Ltd has been wound up by the courts. The craft beer producer, known for its vibrant can designs and New England IPAs, entered liquidation in February due to unsustainable debts. George Lafferty of BTG Begbies Traynor has been appointed to manage the liquidation process.