In 2017, Charles Wells, the owner of Wells Brewery and wine business, made the decision to sell his beloved brewery. As a sommelier and brewer, I have always admired the craftsmanship and dedication that went into the production of Wells' beers and wines. The news of the sale left me with mixed emotions, as I wondered what the future would hold for this iconic brewery.
The buyer of Wells Brewery was Marston's Brewery, a well-respected name in the brewing industry. Marston's also acquired the popular Bombardier, McEwan's, and Young's brands as part of the deal. This acquisition was a significant move for Marston's, as it expanded their portfolio and allowed them to tap into new markets.
Upon acquiring Wells Brewery, Marston's made the decision to rebrand the brewery as the Eagle Brewery. As a brewer, I understand the importance of branding and how it can influence consumer perception. While I was initially skeptical about the name change, I soon realized that it was an opportunity for Marston's to breathe new life into the brewery and create a fresh identity.
In 2019, another interesting development occurred when Young's, one of the brands acquired by Marston's, decided to rebrand its Bitter and Special beers. The Bitter was renamed London Original, while the Special became London Special. This move was aimed at highlighting the brewery's connection to its roots in London and emphasizing its authenticity.
As someone who appreciates the history and traditions of brewing, I found this rebranding fascinating. It showed that even established brands like Young's were willing to adapt and evolve to meet the changing preferences of consumers.
The ownership of Wells Brewery has shifted from Charles Wells to Marston's Brewery. This change has brought about new opportunities and challenges for the brewery, as well as the rebranding of the former Wells Brewery as the Eagle Brewery. The rebranding of Young's Bitter and Special as London Original and London Special further exemplifies the dynamic nature of the brewing industry.
Being a sommelier and brewer, I have witnessed firsthand the ebb and flow of the industry. Companies come and go, ownership changes hands, and brands evolve. It is an ever-changing landscape that requires adaptability and creativity. As a lover of beer and wine, I look forward to seeing how Marston's and the Eagle Brewery continue to thrive in this ever-evolving industry.