Alcohol consumption falls by 18% in a decade
The figures compiled by the British Beer & Pub Association from HMRC data shows total alcohol consumption down 0.3% in 2014 with consumption per head now 18.4% lower than it was in 2004.
However beer’s share of the market rose in 2014, by 1%, to over 36% – with second-placed wine slipping below 33%. Spirits share of the market held steady, at 21%, with cider at 8%.
Beer brought in £3.36bn in beer duties in 2014, up 1.8% compared with the previous year.
BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: “While the figures certainly bury the myth that overall UK alcohol consumption is inexorably rising, it is hugely encouraging to see such a solid performance from beer in 2014.
“There is no doubt that two cuts in beer duty have had a huge impact in supporting a British-based industry and in encouraging consumers back towards our favourite, lower-strength drink .
“With new investment in the beer category protecting pubs and creating jobs, it all adds to an overwhelming case for a third, historic cut in beer duty in the Budget on 18 March.”
Year | Litres of alcohol per head per year | Change on previous year |
1998 | 7.95 |
|
1999 | 8.32 | 4.6% |
2000 | 8.42 | 1.3% |
2001 | 8.74 | 3.8% |
2002 | 9.07 | 3.8% |
2003 | 9.21 | 1.5% |
2004 | 9.51 | 3.3% |
2005 | 9.35 | -1.7% |
2006 | 9.04 | -3.3% |
2007 | 9.16 | 1.3% |
2008 | 8.88 | -3.1% |
2009 | 8.34 | -6.1% |
2010 | 8.36 | 0.2% |
2011 | 8.16 | -2.4% |
2012 | 7.92 | -2.9% |
2013 | 7.78 | -1.8% |
2014 | 7.76 | -0.3% |
