This was driven by favourable weather conditions, the Six Nations rugby tournament, and St Patrick’s Day.
CGA by NIQ’s Daily Drinks Tracker indicated that average drinks sales in managed venues increased by 2% in the week leading up to Saturday 15 March compared to the same period in 2024.
Key growth factors
This growth accelerated to 5% in the subsequent week ending March 22nd. The positive trend marks four consecutive weeks of sales exceeding the previous year’s levels, with earlier increases of 4% and 8%.
Saturday 15 March, which featured the final round of Six Nations matches, saw a 5% increase in drinks sales compared to the same day in 2024. This momentum continued into the lead up to and including St Patrick’s Day (Monday 17 March), which witnessed a significant 27% surge in sales.
A period of sunshine, with temperatures reaching the early 20s on Thursday 20 March, further propelled sales, resulting in a 21% year-on-year jump as consumers visited beer gardens and terraces. The sunny days of Tuesday 18 and Wednesday 19 March also contributed with a 5% growth each.
Favourable conditions
The favourable conditions significantly benefited Long Alcoholic Drinks (LAD) categories. With beer sales up by 6% and 8% in the weeks ending March 15th and 22nd, respectively.
Cider performed even stronger, with increases of 11% and 14%. In contrast, Wine (down 3% and up 1%) and soft drinks (down 4% and up 4%) remained generally stable over the two-week period. Spirits experienced a decline (down 6% and down 4%), although St Patrick’s Day helped mitigate larger losses compared to previous weeks.
Industry outlook
CGA by NIQ commercial lead, UK & Ireland Rachel Weller said: “Good weather, live sport and big occasions like St Patrick’s Day are always a powerful combination for pubs, bars and suppliers.”
“These numbers are very encouraging signs for the Spring and Summer, and Mother’s Day, Easter and two May Bank Holidays give the On Premise a lot to look forward to—especially if the sun shines."
“Nevertheless, many consumers remain affected by rising costs, and the Chancellor’s Spring Statement this week has done nothing to mitigate the extra costs that are looming for businesses in April. Venues and suppliers will need to be at the top of their game to sustain growth in the weeks ahead.”
