Historic Tasmanian Brewery to Close After 145 Years Lion, the Japanese-owned beverage company, has announced plans to close the James Boag’s Brewery in Launceston, Tasmania, in November 2026. This closure will result in the loss of 42 jobs and mark the end of 145 years of brewing at the historic site. The decision was attributed to significant cost inflation and a sustained decline in the national beer market, with the brewery currently operating at only a fifth of its capacity.

• James Boag’s Brewery in Launceston, Tasmania, will close in November 2026.
• The closure will result in the loss of 42 jobs.
• This marks the end of 145 years of brewing at the historic site.
• Reasons cited include significant cost inflation and a long-term decline in the national beer market.
• The brewery is currently operating at one fifth of its capacity.