PUB chain J D Wetherspoon has announced it will reduce the price of a selection of drinks by approximately 60p from Brexit Day (January 31).
The ‘Let’s stay friends’ promotion will discount a range of European spirits and beers, including Estrella Galicia beer from Spain; German beer, Beck’s; Italian beer brand, Peroni; Polish brew, Tyskie, Jameson Irish Whiskey from the Republic of Ireland; and French vodka brand Grey Goose Vodka.
The reduced rates will be available to customers across each of the pub giant’s 870 venues but will vary depending on the location; the offer will run until February 27.
Tim Martin, chairman of Wetherspoons, highlighted the dangers of imposing tariffs on both goods from the European Union and UK exports ahead of the Brexit deadline.
He said: “Many of our customers are keen to celebrate Brexit. At the same time, we want to remain friends with our European neighbours and offer a range of drinks at an excellent price.
“The EU and UK need to understand that tariffs and protectionism are counter-productive. UK consumers will shun EU goods if tariffs are imposed on UK exports – as EU consumers might do if the roles were reversed.
“It is therefore pointless for one side to threaten the other with tariffs.
“The public and businesses will be the ultimate decision-makers through their purchasing choices. Let’s stay friends and enjoy free trade but take account of the economic reality.
“Consumers hold the whip hand in these negotiations, not governments.”
