Beer sales enjoyed a sharp increase during the second quarter, according to new figures published today.
The survey, compiled by the British Beer and Pub Association, suggests that sales increase by 2.9 per cent during the period, with over 2.2. billion pints sold.
But pubs continued to suffer, with publicans reporting a drop in sales of 6.3 per cent. Supermarket sales, meanwhile, increased by some 4.4. per cent.
A mixture of the World Cup and particularly good weather are thought to be to thank for the increases. But the BBPA pointed out that the figures show “the nation’s pubs need support.”
Brigid Simmonds, chief executive of the BBPA, said: “The World Cup has certainly been as benefit to Britain’s beer sector and we can now hope that the market is starting to turn a corner.
“However...it has to be noted that beer sales in pubs are still falling. [The government must recognise] the economic and social contribution of these vital community assets.”
The pub sector has suffered heavily during the recession, with closures skyrocketing. Pressure groups have long called on the government to freeze alcohol duties for pub sales.
