Full Breakdown
Carlsberg Britvic Plans to Shut Marston’s Brewery in Burton-upon-Trent
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Proposed Closure of Marston’s Brewery and Logistics Site
Carlsberg Britvic announced that its Burton-upon-Trent brewery and on-site logistics operation will close in the summer of 2027, putting the historic complex and its workforce at risk.
Background & Context
Marston’s Brewery has been in Burton-upon-Trent since 1834 and moved to the Shobnall Road site in 1898. Carlsberg and Marston’s merged in 2020, creating a joint venture that excluded the pub estate. Carlsberg held a 60 % stake and completed a full acquisition in 2024.
Timeline
- 2020 – Merger creates Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company.
- 2024 – Carlsberg purchases the remaining Marston’s shares.
- Summer 2027 (planned) – Closure of the Burton-upon-Trent brewery and logistics operation.
Data & Statistics
- Jobs at risk – Sources report either 310 or 303 employees could be affected.
- Cask ale decline – Carlsberg cites a halving of UK cask-ale volumes in the past decade.
- Brand portfolio – Priority ales such as Hobgoblin, McEwan’s and Brooklyn will stay in Carlsberg Britvic’s portfolio; the future brewing site is unspecified. Smaller cask and regional ales are slated for sale.
Official Statements & Responses
CEO Paul Davies acknowledged the shock to staff and framed the move as a strategic realignment toward consumer demand. He said the brewery and logistics operation will continue during a transition period while a consultation process proceeds, and the company will seek new owners for non-priority ale brands.
Criticism & Opposition
Ash Corbett-Collins, chairman of Camra, condemned the plan as “an absolute disgrace,” accusing Carlsberg of showing “little care” for Burton’s brewing heritage and calling for independent brewers to take over the cask brands.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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.” — Paul Davies, Carlsberg Britvic CEO
Why It Matters / Impact
The closure threatens a landmark of England’s brewing history and up to 310 jobs, affecting the local economy and the skilled workforce behind many ales. It also highlights broader challenges in the UK cask-ale market, where declining volumes are prompting major brewers to consolidate production and divest legacy assets. The fate of smaller regional ale brands now depends on specialist brewers willing to acquire them.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact number of employees at risk (310 vs. 303). Carlsberg has not confirmed a figure. While priority brands will remain in its portfolio, future brewing locations are undisclosed, and details of the consultation process are still pending.
