UK: Carlsberg calms brewery sale talk - for now

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 5 June 2007

Carlsberg has moved to quell reports that it is looking to close one of its two breweries in the UK.

Press speculation earlier this week has suggested that the brewer may close its Tetley brewery in Leeds in the north of England.

Speaking to just-drinks today (5 June), however, Gareth Roberts, head of media relations for Carlsberg UK clarified the situation. "Leeds City Council has recently unveiled an area action plan, aimed at regenerating the area around the town centre," he said. "Carlsberg has been in consultation with the council over these plans, with the Tetley brewery located in one of the areas the council would like to regenerate. This plan has created the opportunity for us to review our operations in Leeds."

Roberts emphasised, however, that no decision had yet been taken. "There are still a lot of conversations to be had," he said. "We plan to hold further discussions with the council in the next two-three weeks."

The Tetley brewery employs just under 300 people, with an annual production capacity of 3.5m hectolitres.

Sectors: Beer & cider

Companies: Carlsberg