British Conservative politician and chief executive in hospitality
Pubs and hospitality venues across the UK have seen a surge in footfall and beer sales connected to World Cup matches. Data from MRI Software and Dojo show significant increases in late-night patronage and pint volumes, with regional towns and non-London areas recording the strongest boosts. Experts say the World Cup is driving a notable, ongoing uplift in the night-time economy.
No- and low-alcohol beer has surged in the UK, with no- and low-volume sales up dramatically and more than 64 million pints forecast for the summer. Yet regulators' 0.05% ABV threshold is seen as a barrier to further investment, while industry voices push for a 0.5% standard to unlock growth.
Pub groups report strong World Cup demand lifting like-for-like sales on matchdays, with Grandstand venues leading the gains. For the 42 weeks to July 18, overall sales show softer performance outside peak periods, as weather and economic headwinds weigh on non-event periods.