Pub landlords are toasting their best start to a year this decade as millions shun the annual call to stay alcohol-free. Trade in supermarkets is also soaring.
In all, 90 million pints in pubs plus 110 million pints at home have been downed so far this month, British Beer and Pub Association beer consumption data trends show.
Beer sales in pubs across the first week of January increased by five per cent more than soft drinks, according to the Daily Drinks Tracker from CGA by NielsenIQ.
Drinks spending overall at bars was up three per cent on last year, and around five per cent above January 2020 levels, just before Covid hit. The rush to the country’s 40,000 pubs is being driven by the lingering festive feelgood factor.
Reducing inflation, stabilising interest rates and generous price cuts in pubs are also playing a part.
Industry giant Wetherspoon has slashed the price of several brands to £1.99 a pint at its 800 outlets until Wednesday.
Chairman Tim Martin said: “Shops hold sales in January, so it’s the perfect time to have a sale in the pubs too. It is proving popular with customers – and, as always, staff will serve them responsibly.” One London pub has sold 400 more pints so far this year than last January, after slashing prices 25 per cent.
Manager Steven Rowland, of the Park Tavern, in Wandsworth, said: “It’s a Wet January for us. Punters appreciate the price cut, especially after the cost of Christmas.”
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer & Pub Association, said: “Pubs are providing the best service to customers – whether their January is dry or not.”
She said the sector still “remains fragile”, as it battles high energy bills and supply costs.
But she added: “With Government action on alcohol duty, business rates and VAT, 2024 can be the start of a new era of growth for Britain’s much-loved pubs.”
UKHospitality CEO Kate Nicholls said: “Pub operators will be relieved to have had such a positive start to the year.
“The January sales figures are great news during what has traditionally been a quiet trading period. It shows how pubs are broadening their offer to successfully cater for all customers.”
Analysts CGA said: “Drinks sales have started the year in a positive fashion – and licensees will be hoping the positive trend continues, in what has typically been a time of year where demand is reduced.”
