Beer sales reflect credit crunch

Beer sales are falling across pub, clubs and supermarkets as the credit crunch takes its toll on consumer spending. The latest figures from the Beer and Pub Association show that sales declined by 7.2% between July and September compared with last year.

The BBPA’s Quarterly Beer Barometre also saw a 4.5% drop in the second quarter of the year. The association says that the downturn is attributed to the credit crunch, but is also a consequence of an increase in alcohol taxes.

Sales in pubs, bars and restaurants dropped 8.1% during the quarter, while in supermarkets and off-licences sales fell by 6%

BBPA chief executive Rob Hayward, says: “The accelerating decline in beer sales is a clear sign of a worsening economy, worried households and weakening spending.

“The downturn has now broadened to affect sales through both pubs and supermarkets. This sales trend is symptomatic of the problems infecting the broader economy.”

Hayward has called on the Government to ease tax constraints and regulation placed on the alcohol sector.