InBev announces 7p per pint price rise

InBev UK is raising prices on its draught products by an average of seven pence per pint from next month.

The brewer, whose brands include Stella Artois and Becks Vier, has written to its customers telling them about the revised wholesale price list, which takes effect on February 2.

Explaining the rise, Stuart MacFarlane, InBev UK & Ireland's president, said: "Difficult market conditions, increased commodity prices and a tough economic climate meant that during the last year we faced numerous cost increases - and while we have absorbed these where at all possible, we unfortunately have to pass some of those cost increases on to our customers."

The charge for small kegs will increase by an extra 6p to 76p per small keg, reflecting an increase in manufacturing, handling and supply costs, InBev said.

Tennent's Lager small kegs will remain at 70p per keg.

On Friday it emerged that at least 170 of InBev's on-trade sales staff face losing their job as the result of a company re-structure - and around 300 jobs in total are under threat. A 90-day period of consultation is currently underway and InBev said "no final decisions have been taken".

Plans to close the Budweiser-producing Stag Brewery, in Mortlake, London, next year were also unveiled early last week.

S&N and Guinness owner Diageo also confirmed wholesale price rises last week.