Premium lagers power pubs through May

Premium and world lagers led the charge in hospitality venues across the UK last month, as draught volumes held steady in the on-trade.

According to The Oxford Partnership’s latest Market Watch Snapshot, consumer preferences are continuing to shift, with premium lager volumes rising by +7.3% over the last 12 weeks and world lager up by +10.3%.

In contrast, core lager and world 4% lager experienced declines of -5.2% and -1.6% respectively. These trends, the reaserch business says, point to a notable consumer pivot toward more premium and globally recognised options.

"This sustained growth in the premium category shows that, even as economic pressures persist, consumers are prioritising quality and are willing to spend more for it," says Alison Jordan, CEO of The Oxford Partnership.

Open more hours

Despite a minor year-to-date decline in the number of operating outlets (-0.7%), trading hours seem to be on the rise.

The latest data shows a +0.57% increase in operating hours over the past four weeks, as venues extend opening times to meet demand.

Consumer behaviour further supports this upward momentum. Average dwell time rose by +12.3% and occupancy was up by +5.6% over the last 12 weeks, both strong indicators of deeper, more meaningful engagement.

"We’re seeing fewer but more purposeful visits," adds Jordan. "Consumers are making each occasion count, staying longer and spending more per visit."

Card transaction data from Barclays shows a +2.5% increase in pub and bar spending and a +2.6% rise in restaurants.

Year-to-date, drink spend per head has climbed +5.0%, while food spend rose +6.6%, demonstrating that social experiences remain a priority despite inflation.

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