Beer sales up 4.4%

By Nikkie Sutton

- Last updated on GMT

Rising up: the rise in sales was thanks to the sport and sun this summer
Rising up: the rise in sales was thanks to the sport and sun this summer

Related tags Beer

Beer sales in the third quarter of 2018 rose by 4.4% compared to the same period in 2017, new research has revealed.

The on-trade in particular benefited from this boost with the third quarter showing more growth than in 15 years, with sales rising by 0.9 percentage points, according to the latest beer barometer data from the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA).

This increase in sales was driven by the success of England at the World Cup this summer, which saw the team reach the semi-finals of the competition, driving footfall in pubs where fans watched the games.

It was also partly down to the good weather the country saw this year, which encouraged drinkers to go to the pub and revel in the pub garden, the BBPA said.

Measures needed

There was also good news in the off-trade, with beer sales in the third quarter of 2018 rising by 7.6% when compared to the same period in 2017.

However, the BBPA stated while the World Cup and warm summer meant a boost for pubs, the tournament only happens every four years and means pubs cannot rely on it for growth.

Therefore, to improve the long-term sales of beer and viability of pubs, appropriate measures are required by the government.

Uncertainty around Brexit is a major concern for the brewing and pub sector. With consumers unsure of the final outcome, pubs have started to see customers tightening their purse strings at the bar.

Transition period

The BBPA called on the government for clarity on the transition period and a strong approach to the future relationship with the EU to reassure brewers, licensees and consumers.

BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: “It is certainly good to see beer sales are doing better overall. England’s success at the World Cup and good weather undoubtedly helped.

“The chancellor’s decision to freeze beer tax and lower business rates for thousands of pubs in the Budget will make a huge difference to the viability of the sector moving forward, but Brexit looms large and brewers and publicans alike need certainty.

“Clarity on the transition period from 29 March onwards and a strong steer on the future relationship with the EU would be a boost to the trade and beer sales. A no-deal Brexit should be avoided at all costs.”

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