UK: Interbrew UK has awarded the brewing contract for Draught Bass cask ale to WDB Brands’ Marston’s Brewery in Burton-upon-Trent. Production of Britain’s biggest selling premium cask ale will move to Marston’s in March 2005 when the current contract with Burton-based Coors Brewers expires, Interbrew announced today.

In a statement, Steve Cahillane, Interbrew UK’s CEO, said: “In reviewing the future brewing arrangements for Draught Bass, Marston’s was a natural choice for a number of reasons. Bass is synonymous with Burton. It has been brewed at Burton-upon-Trent since 1777 - and retaining production in its homeland is an important part of the brand’s heritage and is fundamental to securing its long-term success. It is also essential that the quality and distinctive characteristics of the brand are preserved. We already have existing arrangements with Marston’s to produce Draught Bass bottled ale. We know that Marston’s has the combination of traditional craftsmanship, technical brewing expertise and commitment to quality necessary to ensure that our exceptionally high quality standards on Bass are met.”

Alistair Darby, managing director of WDB Brands, added: “We are proud to be given the opportunity to brew one of Britain’s most famous and established cask ale brands. It is a tribute to everyone at Marston’s Brewery that Interbrew UK has recognised our commitment to producing first class ales by entrusting one of the leading bands in their ale portfolio to our team.”

WDB Brands intends to invest over £2m in developing its brewhouse at the Burton site. Around 40m pints of Draught Bass are sold in the UK every year. Bass Pale Ale is the UK’s number one exported beer brand, selling in over 50 countries on 4 continents.

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