The latest Beer Barometer sales data from the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) shows beer sales in the third quarter of 2018 were up 4.4% on the same period last year. This was the first third quarter showing growth in over 15 years.
Good news for brewers, but pubs benefited modestly however from the beer sales boost, with sales increasing by a modest 0.9%.
This increase in beer sales was driven by the progress of England at the World Cup reaching the semi-finals, as well as hot weather throughout the summer months. The World Cup was a welcome if small boost to pubs but as it only comes around every four years, pubs will need much more to change before Qatar hosts the next one in 2022.
Supermarkets and off-licenses were the main beneficiaries with beer sales in the third quarter of 2018 went up by 7.6% on the same period in 2017. The figures clearly demonstrate that UK beer consumers are choosing to drink at home over pubs.
Speaking on the Q3 2018 Beer Barometer, Brigid Simmonds, BBPA Chief Executive, said, “It’s certainly good to see that beer sales are doing better overall. England’s success at the World Cup and good weather undoubtedly helped.
“The Chancellor’s decision in the Budget to freeze beer tax and lower business rates for thousands of pubs will make a huge difference to the viability of the sector moving forward, but Brexit looms large though and brewers and publicans alike need certainty.
'Clarity on the transition period from March 29th 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.”