Carlsberg Proposes Closure of Historic Marston’s Brewery in Burton

Carlsberg Britvic has unveiled plans to close the historic Marston’s Brewery facility in Burton-upon-Trent, a move that will impact approximately 310 employees. The company indicated that the site, along with its primary logistics operation, is scheduled to cease operations next summer.

While Carlsberg described the brewery’s heritage and legacy in the Staffordshire town as “iconic,” the firm cited a “stark reality” regarding the state of the market. According to the company, UK cask ale volumes have more than halved over the past ten years, a trend they expect to persist.

Premium brands such as Hobgoblin, McEwan’s, and Brooklyn are expected to remain within the Carlsberg portfolio. However, it remains unclear where these will be brewed moving forward. The company suggested that smaller brands might find new homes with specialist or local brewers.

Burton-upon-Trent, often referred to as the “beer capital of England,” boasts a brewing history stretching back to the 11th Century when monks first began producing beer. At its peak, more than 30 breweries operated in the area. The town’s water, rich in gypsum, creates a distinctive mineral profile known as “Burton snatch,” which is traditionally associated with high-quality ale.

Ash Corbett-Collins, chairman of the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) and a Burton native, criticized the decision. He stated that while Carlsberg acknowledged the brewery’s importance, the company’s sentiments “come far too little too late.” Calling the announcement an “absolute disgrace,” he argued it demonstrated a lack of care for the nation’s brewing heritage.

Despite his criticism, Corbett-Collins agreed with Carlsberg that the time is ripe for independent brewers to become custodians of the affected cask brands.

CEO Paul Davies assured staff that the proposal was not a reflection on their performance and promised support during the transition. He emphasized the need to focus the company’s portfolio on areas of current and growing consumer demand. “We will do everything we can to ensure [smaller ale brands] thrive under more specialist or local ownership in the future,” Davies said.

The closure follows a broader reshuffling of the brewing industry in the West Midlands. In 2024, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company had initially announced the Burton facility would close as part of a restructuring plan. Additionally, Banks’s Brewery moved its production out of Wolverhampton in 2025 after 150 years, relocating to Burton.

Carlsberg Britvic confirmed it informed colleagues and trade union partners of the news on Thursday. The brewery and logistics operations are expected to remain open during the transition period while consultations take place.