Burton Economy: Brewing Heritage and Modern Industry
For centuries, the town of Burton has been defined by its relationship with brewing. While the industry has evolved through mergers and acquisitions, it remains a cornerstone of the local economy. Today, Burton blends this rich industrial legacy with a diverse landscape of manufacturing, retail, and strategic logistics.
The Brewing Industry
Brewing is not just a historical footnote in Burton; it is a living trade. The town currently hosts eight breweries, ranging from global giants to specialized microbreweries. Coors Brewers Ltd, formerly known as Bass Brewers Ltd until its acquisition by the American Molson Coors Brewing Company in the late 1990s, produces well-known brands such as Carling and Worthington Bitter.
Another major player is Marstons plc (formerly Marston's, Thompson and Evershed plc), which was acquired by Wolverhampton & Dudley Breweries. They produce draught Marston's Pedigree and Hobgoblin, and brew Bass under licence from InBev.
Microbreweries and Specialized Production
Beyond the large-scale operations, Burton supports a vibrant microbrewery scene. These include:
- Burton Bridge Brewery: Located on Bridge Street, producing traditional beers like Bridge Bitter, Stairway to Heaven, Damson Porter, and Golden Delicious.
- Tower Brewery: A microbrewery situated in the old Salts Water Tower of Walsitch Maltings.
- Old Cottage Brewery: Based in Hawkins Lane, known for Oak Ale and Halcyon Daze.
- Black Hole Brewery: Located at the Imex Centre.
- Gates Brewery: A microbrewery found on Reservoir Road.
The town's brewing influence extends to corporate management. Burton serves as the headquarters for pub operators Punch Taverns plc and the Spirit Pub Company (though the latter was acquired by Greene King and no longer maintains a headquarters there), both of which were spun out of Bass in 1997. Additionally, the White Shield microbrewery operates alongside the former National Brewery Centre, which has also served as the Bass Museum of Brewing.
Brewing By-products: Marmite and Bovril
The brewing process created opportunities for secondary industries. The Marmite factory is a direct by-product of brewing. After operating at the corner of Cross Street and Duke Street, the factory moved to Wellington Road in the 1960s. This production subsequently led to the creation of Bovril. Both brands are currently owned by the multinational corporation Unilever.
Manufacturing and Engineering
Burton's industrial history includes significant contributions to footwear and engineering. Eatough's, a shoemaking firm from Leicestershire, operated a factory on Burton Road, Branston from 1920 until 1989. The company was a pioneer in workplace culture and product design, introducing music in the factory in 1936 and washable children's sandals (Plastisha) in 1957.
In the engineering sector, Briggs of Burton (established in 1732 by Samuel Briggs) remains a prominent name in brewery and process engineering. After acquiring its rival Robert Morton DG in 1988, Briggs moved its operations from New Street to Derby Street. The original site now houses the Octagon Shopping Centre.
Another historical pillar was Thornewill and Warham, established in 1740. Originally a metal hardware manufacturer, it evolved into an engineering firm specializing in steam engines and railway locomotives, and even constructed two footbridges across the River Trent. The company was acquired by S. Briggs & Co in 1929.
Retail and Commerce
Commerce in Burton dates back to 1200, when King John granted a charter for a Thursday market to the abbot. This tradition continues today through both indoor and outdoor markets managed by the East Staffordshire Borough Council, with stall rentals handled by Quarterbridge since 2011.
The Burton Market Hall, built in 1883 based on designs by Dixon & Moxon of Barnsley, features a distinctive trussed roof with cast iron pillars. A fish market was integrated into the hall in 1925. The outdoor market operates every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm.
Shopping Centres and Modern Retail
The primary retail hub is Coopers Square, opened in 1970 by Princess Alexandra and upgraded with a roof in the mid-1990s. Other shopping areas include the Octagon Shopping Centre (mid-1980s) and the Burton Place Shopping Centre (1986), originally known as Worthington Walk. The Middleway Retail Park provides further amenities, including a Cineworld cinema, Mecca Bingo, Matalan, and restaurants like Nando's and Bella Italia.
Despite this infrastructure, a 2005 New Economics Foundation report ranked Burton among the top ten "clone towns" in England, scoring it 13.3 out of 60 for individuality due to the prevalence of chain stores. To combat this and increase footfall, the town has introduced events such as a French market.
Distribution, Warehousing, and Media
Burton's central location in England provides excellent transport links to major cities including Birmingham, Derby, Nottingham, and Leicester. This has made the town and the nearby Fradley Park ideal for logistics. Major companies with distribution centres in the area include Amazon, DHL, Boots, B&Q, Waterstones, Hobbycraft, Holland & Barrett, and Clipper.
Local media services are provided by the Burton Mail, BBC Radio Derby, and Capital Mid-Counties.
Key Facts
- Brewing Hub: Home to eight breweries, including Coors Brewers and Marstons plc.
- Industrial Legacy: Briggs of Burton has been operating since 1732.
- Unique By-products: The town produces Marmite and Bovril via Unilever.
- Historic Trade: The town's market charter dates back to April 12, 1200.
- Logistics Center: Strategic location attracts giants like Amazon and DHL.
- Cultural Events: Hosts the CAMRA National Breweriana Auction every October.
| Sector | Key Entities/Locations | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Brewing | Coors, Marstons, various microbreweries | Global brands and traditional ales |
| Manufacturing | Briggs of Burton, Unilever (Marmite) | Process engineering and food production |
| Retail | Coopers Square, Market Hall | Historic markets and modern shopping centres |
| Logistics | Fradley Park, Amazon, DHL | Central UK distribution hub |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which major beer brands are produced in Burton?
Major brands produced in the town include Carling and Worthington Bitter (by Coors Brewers), as well as Marston's Pedigree and Hobgoblin (by Marstons plc).
What is the connection between brewing and Marmite?
Marmite is produced as a by-product of the brewing industry. The current factory is located on Wellington Road, and the production of Marmite also generated the production of Bovril.
How old is the tradition of the Burton market?
The market tradition is very old, originating from a charter granted to the abbot by King John on April 12, 1200.
Why is Burton considered a strategic location for warehousing?
Its relative location in the centre of England allows for easy access to several major cities, including Birmingham, Derby, Nottingham, and Leicester.
What happened to the Eatough's shoe factory?
Eatough's operated from 1920 until 1989, when it closed due to competition from cheap imports. It was notable for introducing music in the workplace and creating 'Plastisha' washable sandals.