Carlsberg Britvic to Close Historic Marston's Brewery in Burton-upon-Trent

Carlsberg Britvic has announced plans to close the historic Marston's brewery in Burton-upon-Trent next summer, a move that could significantly impact the British beer industry. The company attributes the decision to a decline in the popularity of cask ales, a product line that has been brewed at the Staffordshire site for centuries.

Chief Executive Paul Davies stated that the 'stark reality' is that UK cask ale volumes have fallen by more than half in less than a decade and are projected to continue declining. He emphasized that the proposal is not a reflection on the site's employees and that efforts will be made to support them through this period of uncertainty. Approximately 310 people are employed at the brewery.

'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,' Davies said. He also acknowledged the brewery's iconic status and the expertise of its staff.

Carlsberg Britvic will retain its major ale brands, including Hobgoblin, McEwan’s, and Brooklyn, but intends to divest smaller brands. The company was formed in 2024 when Danish giant Carlsberg merged with mixer maker Britvic in a £3.3 billion deal. Carlsberg Britvic also acquired Marston's remaining 40 percent stake in the Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company for £206 million.