Strong Valentine’s Day keeps drinks sales level with 2023
However, Valentine’s Day couldn’t revive the spirits category, which continued a tough start to 2024 with the week’s sales down 9%
Drinks sales at Britain’s pubs and bars stayed level year-on-year, with a small 0.1% fall for the week ended 17 February, to continue a solid start to February trading, according to data from CGA.
This follows 1% growth in the previous seven days and continues a decent build-back after tough conditions in January.
Sales on Valentine’s Day, a crucial trading date for operators and suppliers, were 9% higher than on 14 February 2023.
However, performance was more muted at the weekend, with sales down 2% on 17 February.
A strong Valentine’s Day made it a good week for the wine category, where sales were 4% ahead of last year. Beer saw a 2% rise, cider was up 3% while soft drink sales were flat.
However, Valentine’s Day couldn’t revive the spirits category, which continued a tough start to 2024 with the week’s sales down 9%.
Jonathan Jones, CGA by NIQ’s managing director, UK and Ireland, said: “Valentine’s Day is always a welcome boost to sales at a quiet time of year, and it delivered a particularly impressive bounce this year. It shows that people are as eager as ever to celebrate special occasions in pubs, bars and restaurants, despite all the pressures on their spending.”
