Cider Sales Soar as Warm Weather Boosts Pub Trade

The recent surge in warm weather across the UK has provided a much-needed boost to the pub industry, with cider sales experiencing a notable increase. As temperatures rise, customers are flocking to pubs and embracing refreshing beverages, positively impacting trade according to recent reports. The combination of sunny days and relaxed social restrictions has created an ideal environment for people to enjoy outdoor settings and indulge in their favourite drinks. Cider, with its crisp and fruity flavours, has become a popular choice among patrons seeking a refreshing and thirst-quenching option.

The Drinks Recovery Tracker from CGA by NIQ revealed that drinks sales in Britain’s managed pubs and bars during the seven days to Saturday 27 May finished 2% ahead of the same week in 2022, thanks to surging cider sales and warm weather. This marks the fifth successive week of year-on-year growth for on-trade drinks transactions.

The latest figures reflect a solid May for operators and suppliers in the UK’s hospitality industry, despite the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. Beer and cider sales performed particularly well, with beer up 10% and cider up 15% last week. Soft drinks and wine sales were also ahead, while spirits sales lagged behind last year by 5%. The strong performance of cider sales and the wider drinks market is a welcome boost for the industry, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years.

Cider Sales and Warm Weather

Cider Sales on the Rise

The latest Drinks Recovery Tracker from CGA by NIQ revealed that cider sales in Britain’s managed pubs and bars during the seven days to Saturday 27 May finished 22% higher than the same week in 2022. The surge in cider sales can be attributed to the warmer weather, which always benefits the category. The increase in cider sales contributed to the fifth successive week of year-on-year growth for on-trade drinks transactions.

In addition to cider sales, beer and soft drinks also recorded solid growth, up 5% and 3%, respectively. However, wine and spirits were weaker, with wine up just 0.2% and spirits down 11%.

Warm Weather Boosts Pub Trade

The warm weather has been a significant factor in boosting on-trade drinks transactions in Britain’s managed pubs and bars. According to the Drinks Recovery Tracker, trading in the week to last Saturday, 27th May, finished 2% higher than the same week in 2022, down slightly from 5% in the previous week, but still a solid May for operators and suppliers.

Seasonality plays a key role in on-trade cider sales, with warmer weather and beer gardens activating the nation’s sweet tooth year after year. The government-backed Eat Out to Help Out scheme in tandem with one of the hottest summers on record boosted the cider category in 2020. In 2023, the warm weather has once again played a significant role in driving cider sales and boosting pub trade.

In conclusion, cider sales have been on the rise in Britain’s managed pubs and bars, with the warmer weather contributing to the surge in sales. The increase in cider sales, along with solid growth in beer and soft drinks, has led to the fifth successive week of year-on-year growth for on-trade drinks transactions.

Pub Trade Benefits

Increased Revenue

The warm weather and increased cider sales have had a positive impact on the pub trade, leading to increased revenue. According to the Drinks Recovery Tracker, cider sales have increased by 22% in May 2023, which is attributed to the warmer weather. This increase in sales has led to a boost in revenue for pub owners, helping to offset the losses incurred during the pandemic. The boost in cider sales not only benefits pubs but also supports local and regional cider producers. As consumer demand increases, pubs can collaborate with local cider makers, showcasing their products and promoting the vibrant cider industry in the UK.

Higher Footfall

The increase in cider sales and warm weather has also led to higher footfall in pubs. As more people head out to enjoy the sunshine, pubs are seeing an increase in customers. This increase in footfall is not limited to just those looking for a refreshing cider, but also to those looking for other drinks and food options.

Customer Satisfaction

The boost in revenue and higher footfall are also leading to increased customer satisfaction. With more customers coming through the doors, pub owners are able to provide better service and a more enjoyable experience for their customers. This increase in customer satisfaction is reflected in the positive reviews and feedback that pubs are receiving.