Heineken says weight-loss drugs could curb beer demand in British pubs
Heineken has warned British pubs and bars that the growing use of weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy could reduce demand for beer and cider. The drugs may lessen users’ desire to drink, making multi-pint sessions less common and potentially reducing customer visits and spending.
In advice shared with UK hospitality businesses, Heineken suggested offering half pints, low- and no-alcohol drinks, and small plates. It says some users are choosing smaller servings, lower-alcohol drinks and premium products, while other brewers have questioned whether the drugs are affecting beer consumption. Heineken estimates that British pubs, bars and restaurants sold nearly £14bn of beer in the year to February, with under £300m coming from low- and no-alcohol options.
In short
- Heineken says weight-loss drugs may reduce beer and cider demand.
- The company recommends smaller serves and low-alcohol choices.
- UK venues sold nearly £14bn of beer in the year to February.
Explained simply
Heineken is a major brewer that sells beer and cider to pubs and bars. In Britain, pubs are an important place for people to drink and socialise, and beer makes up a large share of what they sell.
Wegovy is a prescription medicine used for weight loss. It belongs to a group of drugs that can affect appetite, and some people taking them may feel less interested in alcohol or prefer smaller drinks.
Pubs and brewers depend on customers’ choices about how often they visit and what they order. Changes in demand could affect sales, while smaller servings and low- or no-alcohol options give venues other ways to cater for customers.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Boom in weight-loss drugs could lead to drop in beer sales, Heineken warns British pubs”.