Pint of larger
Prices leap up to 14% amid rise of craft beers
SOLDIERS march through Liverpool yesterday to mark the ninth annual Armed Forces Day.
Prime Minister Theresa May joined the Earl of Wessex, representing the Queen, and Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon for the national event on the city’s waterfront.
The day began with a gun salute and parade and included a visit from the HMS Iron Duke and flypasts by the Red Arrows and Typhoon jets.
Mrs May said: “It is wonderful that we mark the tremendous job our armed forces do for us.”
The PM posed for pictures with the crowds and was cheered by many, although some booing was also heard. More than 300 other events will take place globally as part of the celebrations. BEER drinkers are paying more for mainstream lager in supermarkets as trendy craft beers get cheaper.
Average prices have jumped an inflation-busting 4 per cent in the past year, with UK brewers blaming higher imported raw material costs.
Heineken has seen a sharp 8 per cent year-on-year increase, while the average price of a four 440ml pack of Kronenbourg is now £4.44 – up 11 per cent on last year.
And a six pack of 275ml bottles of Beck’s now costs on average £5, a whopping 14 per cent rise.
Industry magazine The Grocer says shoppers are paying less for craft beer brands, like Brewdog, but more for mainstream brands as supermarkets scale back their stock.
It also says retailers are reducing lager and cider in favour of “trendier” premium lines, with Sainsbury’s axing more than 70 products as part of a review this month.
Retail consultant John Butler said: “Imported raw material prices have impacted all the brewers. Some have not been to the trade with a cost price increase in four years, instead cutting their own costs. But there comes a point where they can take no more.”
Market analyst Brand View found average prices for lager, cider and beer are 4 per cent higher than last year across 982 products in high street chains. The Consumer Prices Index shows the annual cost of living has risen by 2.9 per cent.