The Tasmanian Government is moving to purchase the historic Boag’s Brewery site in Launceston, following owner Lion’s decision to cease production in November.
In a statement, Premier Jeremy Rockliff confirmed he had met with representatives from Lion’s parent company, Kirin, in Japan to discuss the future of the site. Following the meeting, the Premier’s office announced Kirin had provided “in-principle support to explore in good faith the State’s proposal to purchase the site.”
The move comes after Lion announced last month it would close the 145-year-old brewery on November 6, impacting 42 local jobs. The company, which has owned Boag’s since 2007, cited a long-term decline in the national beer market and significant cost inflation as reasons for the closure, stating the brewery was operating at about one-fifth of its capacity.
According to reports from Pulse Tasmania, the Premier’s discussions in Japan bypassed the Australian subsidiary Lion to deal directly with the ultimate decision-makers at Kirin. Lion has previously stated it does not intend to sell the James Boag’s brand, which will continue to be brewed at its mainland facilities. The Boag’s Brewhouse and visitor centre in Launceston is also expected to remain open.
In his statement, Premier Rockliff described the brewery as part of Tasmania’s “industrial and cultural heritage” and said any transition must focus on future economic opportunities. The government and Kirin have also agreed to work on enabling legislation to support the future redevelopment of the precinct, according to the Premier’s office.
Mr Rockliff said he raised worker concerns directly with Kirin, and the company agreed to consider “further requests” for the worker support package. A meeting between the Premier and Lion’s chief executive is scheduled for next week to progress these discussions.
The government has not released specific details of its proposal or potential future uses for the site. A Northern Tasmanian Economic Summit is scheduled for July 15 to discuss opportunities for the region, including the brewery precinct.