Economic headwinds have forced the closure of two established breweries based in Staffordshire.
Family-owned Slater’s Ales is preparing to cease trading in the New Year.
The Stafford business, run by brother and sister directors Andrew and Vicki Slater, has won awards for its beers since it was set up 27 years ago.
It made national headlines in 2012 when its Top Totty beer, promoted by a half-naked lady on the pump plate, was withdrawn from a parliamentary bar following a complaint by the Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities.
Announcing the forthcoming closure, the owners said: “Unfortunately, the aftermath of Covid and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has meant for us it was time to close the business down.”
Burton Town Brewery in Burton upon Trent, founded in 2015, has revealed that it will close just before Christmas.
Its taproom is noted for imaginative décor featuring a mural illustrating Burton’s proud brewing history.
A spokesperson said: “The company has made the decision to cease brewing for the foreseeable future, due to increased costs and drop in demand within the brewing industry.”
Both breweries have expressed sadness that they are closing, and have thanked their customers over the years.
Meanwhile brewing giant Marston’s, also based in Burton, announced recently that it has posted a pre-tax profit of £27.7 million despite the cost-of-living crisis.
