A historic brewery and major logistics operation in Burton upon Trent could close next summer, putting around 310 jobs at risk, under proposals announced by drinks giant Carlsberg Britvic.
The company revealed yesterday that it is proposing to close Marston’s Brewery and its primary logistics operation at the site in summer 2027.
Carlsberg Britvic said the proposal had been driven by a decline in the cask ale market and the need to create greater long-term value across its multi-beverage portfolio.
But the announcement has prompted a strong reaction from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), which renewed its call for the Competition and Markets Authority to investigate consolidation in the UK beer market.
CAMRA Chairman Ash Corbett-Collins, who was born and raised in Burton, said: “This announcement is an absolute disgrace, and the latest in a string of actions that show how little they care about our brewing heritage or the nation’s drinkers.
“However, we do agree with Carlsberg on one thing. The time is right to think about alternative, independent, brewers who are willing to become custodians of Carlsberg’s cask brands and will finally do the beers the justice they deserve.
“Like the rescue of Jennings in Cumbria by passionate and experienced brewers, I hope the Burton brewery can be saved.”
Burton MP Jacob Collier described the proposal as a “hammer blow” for the town.
He said: “Marston’s has been here since 1834 and Pedigree is an iconic British beer rooted in this town. That might not matter to some but it matters to us and it matters to me. We have seen far too often foreign companies buy up British brands to wind them up and then consign them to the history books. Burton’s history erased. I’m determined that does not happen here.”
The MP has contacted brewing company AB InBev about keeping Bass, which is brewed at the site under licence, in Burton.
He has also spoken with the Prime Minister’s team and the Department for Business and said he would work with trade unions and the wider brewing sector to explore what could be done. He is also due to meet Carlsberg’s chief executive.
Councillor Martin Maurray, Leader of Staffordshire County Council, has urged Carlsberg Britvic to explore every option to retain its presence in the town.
He added: “I would emphasise that this proposal is subject to consultation, but it is terrible news for the workforce and the residents of Burton.”
A statement by Carlsberg Britvic yesterday said that UK cask ale volumes have more than halved in less than a decade, with the decline expected to continue.
It read: “This proposal, driven by structural category decline and a need to create greater long-term value, has not been made lightly.”
CEO Paul Davies described Marston’s Brewery’s history and legacy in Burton as “iconic” and said its teams are “true experts in ale”.
He added: “Their skill, craft and knowledge have shaped the industry for generations, just as our logistics teams have always delivered exemplary customer service. This proposal, therefore, is by no means a reflection on any of our people, and every effort will be made to help them through this period of uncertainty.”
Priority ale brands including Hobgoblin, McEwan’s and Brooklyn will remain within the company’s portfolio, while it is seeking new homes for other cask and regional ale brands.
Carlsberg acquired Marston’s PLC’s remaining 40% stake in Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company in July 2024, giving it full ownership of the brewing business, including Marston’s Brewery and its beer brands.
Carlsberg Britvic stressed that the proposed consultation is being undertaken by Carlsberg Britvic and does not involve Marston’s PLC.
I suspect the reason for low sales for Bass is that it is often unavailable. In my local pub supply seems unreliable. Is this a deliberate ploy create a reason for closure