As per data gathered by Oxford University’s Our World in Data, the typical consumption of wine for the average Brit is now around 37 bottles annually. In contrast, the intake of beer has decreased to approximately 124 pints, marking a significant decline from the figure of 50 years ago.
Despite a substantial decline in beer consumption over the past few decades, particularly with the nearly halved number of pubs, it still maintains its position as the nation’s preferred beverage. Beer leads as the favorite drink, with 36.1% of the population choosing it, slightly surpassing wine at 33.7% in terms of the overall share.
Despite a substantial increase in celebrity endorsements, a broader range of offerings, and the introduction of new products, the popularity of spirits has remained relatively constant. It holds a share of approximately 24% of the total alcohol consumed in the UK, comparable to the levels observed in 1980. Currently, individuals in the UK consume about 94 shots of spirits per year.
The news comes as the UK gears up for the festive period, with the average Brit expected to indulge in around six alcoholic drinks on Christmas day alone, commencing their first sip at approximately 9:05 am.
However, data from last year has indicated that up to a third of adults chose to abstain from drinking altogether during the Christmas season.
Last year, the percentage of Brits intending to abstain from alcohol increased by 10%, as revealed in an Ocado survey of 2,000 respondents. Out of those surveyed, 38% expressed their intention not to drink, marking an increase from 28% in 2021.
This trend coincides with the ongoing surge in sales of alcohol-free beverages, primarily propelled by Generation Z and Millennials. More than half (56%) of individuals aged 18-34 are inclined to abstain from alcohol during the festive period, in contrast to a quarter of those aged 55 and above.
The on-trade and overall sales received a boost last year due to the decision to hold the FIFA World Cup during the winter and festive period, culminating in the final taking place just a week before Christmas Day. However, only pubs reaped the benefits of increased trade, as cocktail bars and restaurants were adversely affected by the tournament.