Last week’s drinks sales fell 6% below the same period in 2023 as some consumers tightened their spending after enjoying the Euro 2024 tournament in pubs and bars.
The figure from CGA by NIQ’s Daily Drinks Tracker — for average sales in managed venues in the seven days to Saturday, 27th July — is the first negative number for several weeks.
Patchy weather and tough comparatives with July 2023, including the boost of the Women’s World Cup, also contributed to a softer week for on-trade venues and suppliers.
The week’s trading fluctuated in line with the weather. Sales were up by 1% on both Tuesday and Wednesday as temperatures rose in much of Britain. But they were down year on year on the other five days of the week.
Trading was behind by between 7% and 9% from Thursday to Saturday as cooler and wetter weather kept people away from beer gardens and terraces. The start of the school break, meanwhile, saw some consumers leave for holidays overseas.
Category-wise, a couple of sunny days helped to lift cider sales 2% above the same week in 2023. However, all other major segments were down year on year, with spirits the worst affected.
“The Euro 2024 tournament was very much a net positive for the on-premise, and after fans spent freely during games, some hangover to sales was to be expected,” said Jonathan Jones, CGA by NIQ’s managing director, UK and Ireland.
“It’s a reminder that money remains tight for many consumers, despite falling inflation and the easing of some household bills.
“We can be optimistic that spending will loosen as the year goes on, but venues and suppliers are going to need to stay sharply focused on value and quality to sustain sales in what is still a challenging trading environment.”
Five Points has collaborated with DEYA on Starburst Galaxy, a 4.5% ABV pale. “Brewed with the juicy trio of Galaxy, Strata, and Nelson hops, Starbust Galaxy is packin’ pineapple, grape, and passionfruit flavours, and we can’t wait for you to taste it!” say the brewers.
Stonegate Group has refinanced its debt, following discussions with bondholders and TDR Capital, who support the current strategic direction of the company, the leadership of the business, and performance enhancement initiatives. The refinancing package, which follows the announcement in December 2023 of the financing of a portfolio of 1,034 pubs, will see Stonegate’s balance sheet structure significantly simplified and strengthened. As part of the deal, funds managed by TDR Capital will make a circa £250m shareholder contribution.
