The Kulmbacher Brauerei AG announced that its subsidiary Scherdel will cease production for economic reasons, citing high energy, raw material, and labor costs alongside a persistent decline in beer consumption. Interim CEO Dr. Jörg Lehmann, who will hand over leadership to Christoph Ahlborn of Nestlé in January 2026, confirmed that operations at the Hof site are no longer sustainable despite extensive internal reviews.
Kulmbacher had rescued the 100,000 hl brewery from insolvency in 2003, keeping production in Hof alive for over two decades. Yet sales of Scherdel beers have since fallen by roughly 50 %, leaving the facility underutilized. “We have examined various options for the site,” Lehmann said. “However, continuing operations in Hof is no longer economically viable. Even though this decision is painful, we must now take this step and close the site.”
The closure which is scheduled for the end of 2026 affects 35 employees, who will be offered alternative positions within the group or assisted in finding new jobs. The two apprentice brewers and maltsters will complete their training at other company sites. Production of Scherdel’s remaining core range—recently reduced to around 50,000 hl annually (≈ 42,700 barrels)—will be transferred to the group’s Sternquell Brauerei in Neuensalz near Plauen.
Despite the shutdown, the Scherdel brand will survive. Kulmbacher intends to maintain select Scherdel beers brewed to the original recipe and continue its partnerships with local gastronomy, trade, and community festivals. “Scherdel is deeply rooted in Hof’s identity,” Lehmann emphasized, promising the company would remain engaged in regional life even after production ceases.
