The latest Daily Drinks Tracker from CGA by NIQ showed wet sales across managed venues by value was up by 0.7% year-on-year during the week to Saturday 16 November
CGA said while the increase was “modest”, it had “raised hopes” that festive occasions may start to unlock more consumer spending after a tough autumn in the on premise. It followed a downturn of 5% at the end of October.
Brighter weather
According to the data, there was “strong growth” of 8% and 5% on Sunday and Monday (10 and 11 November) respectively, attributed in part to a burst of brighter weather, Premier League fixtures and Remembrance Day commemorations in local communities.
However, sales were then down by between 0.3% and 3% from Wednesday to Friday (13 to 15 November), before a flat Saturday.
Of the drinks categories measured in the tracker, the Long Alcoholic Drinks (LAD) segment had a positive week, as did beer and cider, with sales up 4% and 3% and respectively.
Wine was also up by 3% and soft drinks by 1% while spirits were 11% behind the same week in November 2023, continuing a challenging year for the category.
Under pressure
CGA by NIQ commercial leader UK & Ireland Rachel Weller said: “Growth of 0.7% isn’t much cause for excitement, but it at least shows suppliers and operators are hauling sales back into line with last year.
“Consumers are hopefully getting ready to release some pent-up spending over December, and it’s encouraging to see good LAD numbers.
“However, with growth coming from higher prices, it’s clear that volumes remain under pressure, and venues will have to work very hard to attract people out of home over the festive season.”
