UK alcohol sales are falling due to the recession, reports from a survey have found. Market analysis from the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has found that between 2004 and 2011, total alcohol consumption fell by 13%. The survey’s results suggest that the decline is due to the government’s increase in taxes for alcohol sales.
The decline hit alcohol sales in restaurants, pubs and hotels the hardest, indicating that consumers are often opting to consume alcohol in their own homes. The study coincides with new research from Symphony IRI Group that shows that the vast majority of alcohol that was sold last year was part of a promotion. WSTA Chief Executive, Gavin Partington has pointed to signs of future growth for wine sales.