Carlsberg Britvic has proposed closing Marston’s Brewery in Burton upon Trent, alongside its primary logistics operation at the site, in summer 2027, citing a long-term decline in the UK cask ale market.
The company informed colleagues and trade union partners of the proposal on 8 October, with the brewery and logistics operation expected to continue running during the consultation and transition period.
Carlsberg Britvic said certain priority ale brands, including Hobgoblin, McEwan’s and Brooklyn, would remain in its multi-beverage portfolio. It is also actively seeking new homes for other cask and regional ale brands to help them continue under more specialist or local ownership.
Paul Davies, CEO of Carlsberg Britvic, said the decision had not been made lightly, pointing to the scale of the decline in the category.
“While we remain proud of the role we have played in supporting and investing in the ale category overall, the stark reality is that UK cask ale volumes have more than halved in less than a decade, and this trend looks set to continue across the UK,” he said.
Davies said the company needed to focus its portfolio on consumer preferences and categories where customer demand was growing, while recognising the continued appeal of smaller ale brands among their loyal consumers.
He added that the proposed closure was not a reflection on the workforce, praising the brewing and logistics teams for their expertise and contribution to the industry.
“Marston’s Brewery, its history and legacy in Burton upon Trent are iconic, and our teams there are true experts in ale,” Davies said. “Their skill, craft and knowledge have shaped the industry for generations, just as our logistics teams have always delivered exemplary customer service.”
The company said it would make every effort to support affected employees through the period of uncertainty.
The proposal marks a significant change for the historic Burton brewing operation as Carlsberg Britvic reshapes its beer portfolio in response to changing consumer demand.
In July 2024, Carlsberg acquired Marston’s PLC’s remaining 40% stake in Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company, giving it full ownership of the brewing business, including Marston’s Brewery and its beer brands.