Former baker takes charge at Exmoor Ales

June 22, 2006: After 18 years at the helm of one of the UK’s most successful craft breweries, Exmoor Ales’ managing director Peter Turner is standing down.

His replacement at the Wiveliscombe-based brewery, in Somerset, is Jonathan Price, whose background is in baking. He was chief executive of a family-owned bakery business for 25 years, which expanded from a turnover of £4 million to more than £100 million, and from one Midlands site to five across the UK.

Jonathan said: "I acknowledge I am a brewing virgin, but there are some similarities in the baking/brewing process, such as ingredients and fermentation, while cask ale, just like bread, is a living product.

"I am joining a business that is well run with a huge continuity of staff, not least the head brewer, Adrian Newman, who has been there 14 years. I have absolutely no intentions of changing anything."

He was attracted to the brewing industry because he believes there is a growing demand for “real taste”, “local produce” and “real provenance” of regionally-made products, using quality ingredients, and making use of the individual skills of those making it - something that cannot be replicated in big factories/breweries.

Why Exmoor Ales? "Because it makes great beer and has a great staff ethic, a quality very many other local breweries have too. It is also a wonderful part of the country to live in. And with such a great name there is great potential for brand development."

Jonathan added: "With certain London brands having presence in the Westcountry then the journey can also be made in the other direction! Even though that will be some time coming, and hardly of any present concern to those in Chiswick or Wandsworth/Bedford!!"

Peter Turner will act as a consultant over the next few months to ensure the handover goes smoothly.

He said: "I have had a fantastic time over the last 18 years and am very proud of the company and everyone who works there. And I would like to thank all of our customers for their great loyalty to Exmoor Ales and know that the company will continue to produce excellent beers and provide great service in the coming years under Jonathan’s direction."