In the off-trade, there was a minor summer boost with volume sales up +3% over the latest quarter thanks to an increase in sales of cider, beer and sparkling wine, however annual sales were down by -2%.
While value sales in both the on- and off-trade were up +2% for the year, this is being driven by year on year duty increases. Alcohol duty increased on all alcohol products by 5.2% in the 2013 Budget, except on beer, swamping the +2% increase and squeezing both consumers and the trade.
The WSTA Market Report draws on data and analysis from Nielsen, CGA Strategy and the Wilson Drinks Report. The data shows that:
Off-trade
On-trade
Commenting on the latest market report WSTA chief executive Miles Beale said: “While the hot weather provided a temporary and welcome boost for the off trade, on-going duty increases and squeezed consumer spending continue to damage the trade and WSTA member businesses.
“Given the record hot summer, the fall in sales in the on trade is a surprise and underlines the need for an early end to the alcohol duty escalator to provide some relief for struggling pubs, bars and restaurants.”
Source: WSTA
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