A MUCH-loved and historic Cumbrian brewery is set to close next month, it has been announced.

Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC) has today announced proposals to close Jennings Brewery, Cockermouth in early October this year.

CMBC’s logistics based at Jennings Brewery will continue to operate as normal while options for the site are explored, including potential for sale.

Following the closure of the brewery, Jennings Cumberland Cask ale and bottled beer brands will be produced at Marston’s Brewery in Burton.

The business said it is providing 'support to colleagues throughout this period' and is 'actively exploring opportunities for redeployment' within CMBC.

Paul Davies, CEO, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company, said: “We’re incredibly proud of the team at Jennings Brewery, and our priority over the coming weeks will be to ensure they have the support they need as we enter a period of consultation.

“We understand the great affection the local community has for the brewery, and its place as part of the UK’s brewing heritage.

"We are pleased to continue brewing Cumberland Cask by moving production to the historic Marston’s Brewery in Burton, which has a fantastic track record producing traditional cask beers.

“Jennings has operated below capacity for a number of years and has seen a significant decline in volumes, the impact of which has been made more significant by the pandemic.

"Over the course of the past year, we have carefully considered all options for the brewery and have reached the extremely difficult decision to close the brewery.

“We understand this news will be very difficult for our team at Jennings and disappointing to many other colleagues, consumers and customers.

"But with the economic headwinds impacting our industry we must continue to make the difficult choices we believe are needed to ensure CMBC is well placed to navigate the unprecedented external challenges we are facing, and ensure we are able to grow and sustain our position as a leading business in the brewing industry.”

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