BBPA questions CAMRA's claims on cost of a pint

The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) has argued a probe of the beer tie will be an "unwelcome and unnecessary distraction" during a critical time for the trade.

The trade group was responding to news today that CAMRA has lodged a super-complaint with the Office of Fair Trading about the beer tie.

A BBPA statement said: "It would undoubtedly consume valuable time and resources that would be better devoted to trying to support pubs through the problems caused by the economic downturn."

It also said that every pubco is making structural and operational changes to keep pace with the recession.

The group also raised questions over CAMRA's assertion that drinkers pay more for a pint in a tied pub.

The numbers do not support this argument, the BBPA said.

It added: "The market data shows quite clearly that beer drinkers pay broadly the same for their pint whether they buy it in a free trade or a tied pub."

The BBPA pointed to 2008 Nielsen data showing that the average price of a pint in a freetrade, and tied pub, was the same - £2.66.

Meanwhile the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) said it welcomed the beer tie being referred, but did not want it to be removed completely.

SIBA president Keith Bott said: "This long-running debate and uncertainty around the tie is not helpful to our members as they make long-term plans for their business.

"SIBA would like to see greater access for its members' beers into pubs, especially as consumer demand for local, quality beers, is growing and presenting exciting sales opportunities for brewer and retailer."