The first week of April 2025 brought a welcome uplift for UK pubs, with average drinks sales in managed venues rising by 5% compared to the same period in 2024. This increase, reported by CGA by NIQ’s Daily Drinks Tracker, follows a 2% sales growth in March, signalling potential momentum for the on-trade sector after a sluggish start to the year.
Unseasonably warm temperatures, reaching up to 20°C, encouraged patrons to frequent pub gardens and terraces, contributing to the sales boost. The surge was particularly notable in long alcoholic drinks (LAD) categories: cider sales soared by 22%, beer increased by 8%, and wine saw a 6% rise year-on-year. Conversely, soft drinks and spirits experienced declines of 3% and 6%, respectively.
Despite the positive trend, it’s important to consider the context: the timing of Easter in 2024, which fell in late March, affected year-on-year comparisons. Sales dipped by 15% and 28% on Sunday (30) and Monday (31) March 2025, respectively, due to the absence of the Easter boost. However, trading rebounded with growth of 19% and 22% on the following Tuesday and Wednesday, maintaining double-digit increases for the rest of the week. As the industry looks ahead, sustained favourable weather and strategic planning will be key to capitalising on this early spring momentum.
