UK: Alcohol consumption per capita drops to 14-year low

By James Wilmore | 4 March 2013

Alcohol consumption levels are continuing to fall in the UK, the figures show

UK alcohol consumption fell slightly last year, with per capita consumption now at its lowest level in 14 years, according to latest figures.

The data, based on alcohol tax returns to the UK authorities, shows that consumption per head in 2012 fell by 3.3% to 7.99 litres. This is the sixth year in the past eight that alcohol consumption has fallen in the country, according to the figures.

The numbers from HM Revenue & Customs reveal that consumption per head has fallen by 16% since 2004 and dropped below eight litres per head for the first time since 1998.

Brigid Simmonds, chief executive of the British Beer & Pub Association, which conducted the analysis, said: “While alcohol misuse remains a problem for a minority that we must all work to tackle, it is also important that the debate is fully informed by the latest facts on levels of consumption.”

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association said the figures were fresh evidence that the UK Government should drop its plans to introduce a GBP0.45minimum unit price.

Sectors: Beer & cider, Spirits, Wine