Beer industry in the UK - statistics & facts

Trade

In terms of trade, UK beer imports totaled 483 million GBP in 2020, a small decrease compared to 2020. The Netherlands was the single biggest trade partner in terms of beer imports. The pandemic coupled with Brexit took their toll on UK beer exports, totaling just 401 million GBP in 2020, the lowest level in over a decade. Exports grew only slightly in 2021. Europe was the largest trading partner for beer exports in 2021.

Beer drinking

Adding imported beer cleared for consumption to the amount of UK produced beer totaled 46 million hectoliters approved for consumption in 2021, a turnaround after 2020's steep decline. On an individual level, 73 liters of beer were consumed per capita on average. The most popular type of beer in the UK was India pale ale, followed by pale ale. In terms of sales, Carling lead lagers and Sharp's Doom Bar led cask ales. Facing rising inflation, consumers anticipate changing their drinking habits at pubs and restaurants. Most consumers expect to go out less frequently and drink less rather than switching to cheaper brands, should their discretionary budget shrink.

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