Adnams chairman, Jonathan Adnams, to step down from historic Southwold brewer

The chairman of Adnams is stepping down, ending the family’s representation on the Suffolk-based brewer's board.

Jonathan Adnams has confirmed he would step down from the Southwold business before the annual shareholder meeting next June.

The historic brewery, founded in 1872, will no longer have a family member on the board, though the family will remain major shareholders.

In the company’s AGM statement, it was also revealed that Steve Sharp, senior independent director, intends to step down with the timing dependent on the review to raise additional capital.

Adnams confirmed that current sales, margins, and profits are in line with forecasts for the five-month period ending May 2024, during which it has continued to outperform the market in beer volumes and sales.

In addition to its brewery and distillery, Adnams operates 11 pubs and hotels and has 34 partner pubs.

Chief executive Andy Wood will also step down from his role at the end of June, to be replaced by chief financial officer Jenny Hanlon, who will become the first female CEO in the company's 150-year history.