Survival of industry at risk, claims new BBPA chairman

15-Dec-2011 - Last updated on 11-Mar-2017 at 20:40 GMT

Warning: BBPA's Mark Hunter calls on gov't to save industry

The “alarming rate” of pub closures and the decline in beer volumes is a “wake up call of epic proportions”, claims British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) chairman and Molson Coors chief executive Mark Hunter.

Speaking at the annual All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group (APPBG) event at the House of Commons last night he claimed the survival of the industry is at risk and called on the Government to take action.

“Beer’s share of alcohol has declined 40% in 40 years. Beer volumes have declined by a fifth in five years… while pubs continue to close at an alarming rate,” he said.

“These are not ‘worrying statistics’ but a wake up call of epic proportions to anyone who has an interest in the long term health, the survival even, of our industry.

“The prognosis for beer and pubs concerns me deeply. I do not want to be one of the leaders who on his watch could be charged with sitting on his hands while the industry continued to decline.”

He called on the Government to end the “crippling” duty escalator and called for policies that support community pubs.

Hunter said the industry needs to play a leading role in building a culture of alcohol moderation in the UK and to champion the industry through a celebration of beer and pubs in Britain.

He praised the industry for its responsible approach through initatives such as Pubwatch, Business Improvement Districts, Drinkaware and Best Bar None.

However, he issued a stark warning.

“The British love affair with beer is over,” he said. “We may still be the biggest alcoholic category, but we are no longer the automatic choice.

"Any complacency should be wiped out by the massive loss of share to more relevant, unisex, innovative, exciting categories … tough words, but let’s face the brutal facts.

“We need to unite in celebrating the quality of brewing in Britain. We must champion beer’s craft, embrace our diversity and align behind a common purpose … to stand up for, champion and celebrate beer.”

He also revealed that new lower strength beers, will be on show at the APPBG 2.8% beer tasting in January, in the presence of health minister, Ann Milton.

Hunter replaced Marston's boss Ralph Findlay who was BBPA chairman for the last two years.