Cask ale concerns deepen as Marston's brewery closes and debate grows
Tim Bird argues that cask ale sits at the heart of the UK pub heritage, and its future is under threat. In his Morning Advertiser piece, he notes the closure of Marston's brewery and describes the Rock Brewery closure as a shameful blow to traditional cask offerings. He cites Carlsberg's assertion that cask ale demand has fallen by about 50% in the past decade and recalls that Carlsberg merged with Marston’s six years ago, suggesting corporate changes have helped shape the fate of iconic British brews. He also questions what happens to Fuller’s London Pride when the current 10-year deal with Fuller’s pubs ends in 2029, expressing doubt that Asahi will continue brewing at the Griffin Brewery. Bird also highlights a campaign for hospitality VAT relief, noting that petition signatures have risen to more than 400,000 with editors of industry publications backing the effort. He asks breweries to sign the petition and to tell The MA when they have done so. He argues for shifting emphasis away from international lagers toward UK cask ales, insisting that pubs and small operators should unite to protect heritage, jobs and local passion. Source: The Morning Advertiser
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