THE British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) has called on the UK Government to do more to support the industry, after the group’s Beer Barometer sales data revealed a dip in sales in both the off and on-trade.
According to the data, on-trade beer sales in the first quarter of 2018 fell by 1.9% and by 1.5% in the off-trade, compared with the same time last year.
In November, the chancellor froze beer duty but BBPA chief executive, Brigid Simmonds, said more must be done.
“Beer sales experienced another fall at the beginning of the year and the industry will be hoping for better prospects this summer, especially as the FIFA World Cup will be a big draw to the pub,” she said.
“What’s still needed is a continued focus from the government to reduce the tax burden on beer and pubs to ensure their success in the future.”
