Ghost Ship brewer Adnams cuts staff after ‘challenging’ trading

Brewer of Ghost Ship ale, Adnams, has announced it is reducing its workforce amid "challenging" trading conditions. The Suffolk-based company told shareholders it has implemented "a series of operational, commercial and labour management initiatives" following lower-than-anticipated sales at the beginning of the year. Adnams faced "continued pressure on consumer spending and subdued trading conditions" during the six months to June.

The group reported a £1.4m pre-tax loss, which was slightly better than the £1.5m loss from the previous year. Turnover declined by 9% to £27.4m. Chairman Simon Townsend admitted the brewer's performance "fell short of expectations" during the first half of the year but stated that the company is "making progress" toward its long-term plan.

Townsend cited poor revenue as the result of selling tenanted pubs in 2025, which increased turnover that year. The beer boss expressed optimism about early results, which were boosted by favorable weather and the FIFA World Cup. Adnams saw a 3.3% increase in sales at its managed pubs in July, resulting in a 10% boost in profit for the pub arm in that month.

The company also reported encouraging growth in retail sales of its beer, with sales at its shop in Bury St Edmunds increasing five-fold after a relocation. Adnams cut £2m from its operating expenses due to efficiency improvements, overhead control, and operational discipline. The chairman emphasized that Adnams is a hospitality business with a brewery at its core, and the company will prioritize its estate of pubs and hotels over its brewing arm. Adnams was founded by brothers George and Ernest Adnams in 1872.