Up to 17 jobs could be cut from the distribution team of the brewing giant. Rising energy and fuel costs and a downturn in pub trade have been cited as the reasons behind the 'tough decisions' that have been made.

The company says it hopes to keep the cuts to a minimum and believes they can be managed by voluntary redundancies.

Justin Adams, managing director, said: "We're always looking for ways of doing things more efficiently and in the current economic climate that involves making some tough decisions.

"Pub business varies and our delivery patterns need to better reflect these changing requirements. Some pubs are ordering less, so we have to cut our cloth according to our means.

"We have found a way of managing our warehousing and distribution in a more effective way, which involves fewer people and means a number of jobs in this area are at risk."

Ian Quinn, the Unite union shop steward for the distribution team in Bury, who represents about 70 members of staff, said: "Obviously people are concerned about job losses, but the economy is struggling and pub trade is down as people are spending less.

"The job cuts are currently in consultation and voluntary redundancy should fill the quota of 17 jobs, with the redundancy terms being well above statutory."

In February, the company said 15 jobs were at risk because of challenging trading ahead as the company restructured its tenanted pub business.