Stocking the right brands is vital to a pub's success so we've compiled a snapshot of what sells well across the market in the MA's first Brands Report. It is based on the products pubs have been buying through leading wholesaler Matthew Clark. The data comes from a sample of 20,000 pubs - a significant slice of the total number of on-trade outlets.
Uniquely, our report also gives details of the biggest products by region and even by outlet type to enable licensees to check their range against the trends that match their location and business style.
As well as information on how individual brands are performing, our research also shows some key trends:
l There is a market-wide move towards premium products with new drinks such as Britvic's squeezed and pressed juices doing well. Many speciality and imported beers are growing strongly as are most premium spirits, particularly vodkas. Overall, consumers seem to favour quality over quantity.
l The rise in cocktails has nurtured a plethora of products. Marie Brizard liqueurs sell well through Matthew Clark as does carton juice range Sunpride. Cachaca, now a popular base for a number of cocktails, has shot ahead in sales terms.
l Champagne and sparkling wine sales continue to climb. Consumers no longer see them as something only for very special occasions. Many high-street pub chains' pricing policies make them accessible and offering Champagne or sparkling wine by the glass is increasingly common.
l Rosé wine sales have shot up since the hot summer of 2003. This year alone Matthew Clark has seen a year-on-year sales increase of 83%. This is led by blush styles from the New World, with White Zinfandel the most popular variety. Old World dry styles are also increasingly popular.
l Men increasingly drink wine in pubs. It is more acceptable for them to order a bottle to share or to buy a single glass while out with friends. It's not so surprising considering men drink a large share of wine drunk at home. Pub wine styles may shift to reflect men's tastes if the trend continues.