CAMRA has reacted with anger to the news that Carlsberg intends to close its Burton brewing site in 2027. The consumer giants have renewed demands for the Competition and Markets Authority to investigate how global interests have consolidated the UK beer market and are supportive of Carlsberg’s assertion that they are seeking “suitable long-term custodians” for some of the cask beers in their portfolio.
The global manufacturer, which bought Marston’s brewing business outright just two years ago, initially entered a joint venture with Marston’s in 2020, and then acquired soft drinks giant Britvic in 2025.
This is not the first time it has closed a historic brewing site, impacting heritage, the local economy and devasting the industry. Ringwood and Wychwood breweries have closed. Jennings Brewery in Cockermouth and the Tetley Brewery in Leeds have thankfully found success in alternative, independent ownership.
Closure of the historic brewing site in Burton puts around 300 jobs at risk, with dramatic consequences for the town which has been a centre of brewing knowledge for centuries.
Carlsberg wrote to CAMRA as the announcement was made, setting out their reasons for the decision and highlighting that they will be seeking long-term custodians for some of the cask beers within their portfolio.
CAMRA recently launched its ‘Beer in the UK’ report and wider campaign urging the Competition and Markets Authority to launch a formal investigation of the UK beer market.
Representing ordinary drinkers and pubgoers, CAMRA maintains that independent brewers are locked out of the market by global conglomerates, despite providing genuine innovation and choice to drinkers.
Ash Corbett-Collins, CAMRA Chairman, said: “I was born and raised in Burton, and I’m proud of our place at the centre of British brewing. Unfortunately, statements from Carlsberg about understanding the importance of the brewery to the town come far too little too late for most people, CAMRA included.
“This announcement is an absolute disgrace, and the latest in a string of actions that show how little they care about our brewing heritage or the nation’s drinkers.
“However, we do agree with Carlsberg on one thing. The time is right to think about alternative, independent, brewers who are willing to become custodians of Carlsberg’s cask brands and will finally do the beers the justice they deserve.
“Like the rescue of Jennings in Cumbria by passionate and experienced brewers, I hope the Burton brewery can be saved. I’ve got fond memories visiting the brewery in better days, and maybe I’ll be able to go again if it’s handed over to independent owners.”