THE DRINKS INDUSTRY GROUP OF Ireland (DIGI) has warned that pub trade “is experiencing effective meltdown”.

Figures for the first seven months of the year show a drop in sales at pubs of 14.1%. This fall follows an 8.8% drop for 2009.

The CEO of the Licensed Vintners Association, Donall O’Keeffe, said that the sector is in a “crisis situation” and faces “weak consumer demand for the immediate future”.

However, overall sales for drink rose 6.4% for the first seven months of 2010. DIGI said that the reduced excise rates announced in the budget for 2010 haled to stem cross-border alcohol trade, and said the group will work to identify measures to help stimulate the pub trade.

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Drinks industry warns of pub "meltdown"

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.