A Moray craft brewer has raised a glass to news that beer sales in the UK have enjoyed growth for the first time in ten years.
Figures published this week by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) show a 1.3% increase in sales of beer – ending nine consecutive years where sales have fallen.
And for the first time ever pub sales of beer were outstripped by those sold through supermarkets, off-licences and restaurants.
Director of the Forres-based Speyside Craft Brewery, Seb Jones, welcome the increase – and highlighted a change in the industry that has seen a new craft beer industry that is helping to boost sales.
He said: “The new breed of pubs – the craft beer bars – are helping to boost beer sales. They are focusing on craft kegs which I think is what the customer is looking for.”
Publishing the figures BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmons insisted that British beer was back – and they wanted to keep it that way, and that would mean help was need by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
She said: “With 70% of pub drink sales being beer the picture of our much-loved pubs is still fragile. That is why another duty cut from the chancellor is vital.”