Marston's Brewery closure proposal prompts Staffordshire County Council and MP action
Closure could erase significant local brewing heritage
Last updated 8th Oct 2026
Staffordshire County Council has expressed concern over Carlsberg Britvic's proposal to close Marston's Brewery in Burton, which could result in the loss of 303 jobs, subject to consultation.
Cllr Martin Murray, Leader of Staffordshire County Council, highlighted the significant impact of the potential closure on the workforce and local residents, emphasizing Burton's deep historical ties with the brewing industry and heritage brands like Marston's.
Murray stated, “The town’s history and heritage is interlinked with the brewing industry and its heritage brands such as Marston’s."
He urged the company to explore all possible avenues to maintain its presence in Burton and committed the council's support to work alongside government departments, East Staffordshire Borough Council, and the business community.
Jacob Collier, MP for Burton, underscored brewing as integral to the town's identity, calling the proposal a "hammer blow not just for the workers here but for everyone across our town."
Collier highlighted concerns over foreign ownership leading to loss of local industry heritage and stressed his determination to prevent this from becoming another instance of history erased.
He mentioned ongoing discussions with AB InBev regarding Bass beer continued brewing under license in Burton and actions involving the Prime Minister’s team and the Department for Business.
Collier is convening a collective response from local leaders, trade unions, and the brewery sector to explore options to preserve jobs and historic ales, and is seeking dialogue with Carlsberg’s CEO.
The British arm of Danish beer giant Carlsberg said it is planning to shut the brewery and logistics operation at the site in the summer of 2027.
Carlsberg said the closure move is driven by structural decline in the ale category and a “need to create greater long-term value” from the group.
It said it will continue to make certain ale brands, such as Hobgoblin, McEwan’s and Brooklyn, but will look to sell some of its other cask and regional ale brands.
It did not disclose which brands might be sold.