Carlsberg plans to shut Marston’s Brewery in Burton

Marston’s Brewery could close in Burton-upon-Trent, under plans revealed by its owners.

Carlsberg Britvic said it was proposing to shut the facility together with its primary logistics operation based at that site next summer.

Burton-upon-Trent’s connections with the brewing industry date back centuries, with the firm describing its own history and legacy in the town as “iconic”.

However, it said the “stark reality” was that UK cask ale volumes had more than halved in less than a decade and “this trend looks set to continue across the UK”.

The company said “priority brands” including Hobgoblin, McEwan’s and Brooklyn were expected to remain in its portfolio, but it is unclear where they will be brewed.

Others have described the Staffordshire town as the “beer capital of England”, and at its height more than 30 breweries once operated from there.

Carlsberg Britvic said it told colleagues and trade union partners earlier on Thursday.

CEO Paul Davies stated the proposal was “by no means a reflection on any of our people, and every effort will be made to help them through this period of uncertainty”.

He added Marston’s Brewery and the primary logistics operation were expected to continue to operate “during the transition period, while the company works through the detail of the consultation”.

“As and when key decisions are taken over the coming months, we will share further information with the industry, but always with our colleagues first.”

Davies said it was important to ensure the firm’s portfolio was focused “where consumers are today, and where customer demand is growing”.

He added: “That said, smaller ale brands are much loved by select consumers, and we will do everything we can to ensure they thrive under more specialist or local ownership in the future.”