Carlsberg Britvic announced plans to shut Marston’s Brewery in Burton-upon-Trent along with its primary logistics operation based at the site next summer. The closure will impact roughly 310 workers. The company cited the decline in UK cask ale consumption as the primary reason, noting that volumes have fallen by more than half over the past decade with expectations the trend will continue.
The brewery carries significant historical weight in Burton-upon-Trent, which has deep connections to the brewing industry spanning centuries. Marston’s own presence in the town dates back more than 200 years. The town, sometimes referred to as the “beer capital of England,” once hosted more than 30 breweries at its peak. Burton’s brewing heritage extends further back to the 11th Century when monks initially began brewing operations there. The distinctive character of Burton beers stems from the town’s unique water composition, which filters through gypsum deposits before settling in underground aquifers, creating the characteristic quality known in brewing circles as “Burton snatch.”
Carlsberg Britvic indicated that priority brands including Hobgoblin, McEwan’s, and Brooklyn will remain part of its portfolio, though their future brewing locations remain undetermined. Smaller brands may transition to specialist or local brewers. The company stated it had informed employees and trade union partners of the proposal, with CEO Paul Davies emphasizing the closure does not reflect negatively on staff and that efforts will be made to support employees during the transition period.
Local officials and industry representatives expressed concern about the closure. Campaign for Real Ale chairman Ash Corbett-Collins, a Burton native, criticized the announcement as reflecting insufficient care for brewing heritage. However, he suggested the development presents an opportunity to explore independent brewers as custodians of Carlsberg’s cask brands. County and council leaders also expressed disappointment, noting the loss of beer brands such as Marston’s Pedigree and Bass Ale from the town.
The closure follows a similar development in the broader region. Banks’s Brewery in Wolverhampton ceased operations in 2025, with its production shifting to Burton. The Wolverhampton facility had operated since 1875 before closing as part of broader company restructuring. Carlsberg acquired full ownership of Marston’s Brewery in 2024 when it purchased the remaining 40% shareholding in Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company.
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