Britons Ditching Booze: Record Low Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption in Britain has reached an all-time low, with the average adult consuming 10 drinks per week. This decline from a 2003 peak is largely due to an aging population and increasing health consciousness, alongside a trend towards more premium beverages. As people age, the physiological effects of alcohol become more pronounced, naturally leading to reduced intake.

The phenomenon of 'premiumisation' also contributes, where consumers opt for fewer, higher-quality drinks, maintaining revenue for brands despite dipping volumes. Rising prices in pubs and restaurants, driven by inflation and increased costs, are further discouraging consumption. Pubs are bracing for additional price hikes in the new year, with many planning to increase pint prices to offset business costs.

Conversely, Generation Z appears to be diverging from this trend. Historically less inclined to drink, this younger demographic is now increasing its alcohol consumption, moving closer to the national average. While they drink more frequently than they used to, they tend to do so less often than other age groups, often limiting outings to one or two days per weekend.