Alcohol consumption in Ireland lowest in 30 years, according to a new study

All but one type of alcohol suffered a massive drop in sales.

New Revenue Clearance figures show that consumption of alcohol in Ireland is at its lowest level in 30 years. The figures were gathered between January and June of 2021, thus the fall of 10.8% when compared to 2020 can directly be attributed to the general closure of the hospitality industry during this time. In contrast, the figures are down by 14.1% on the same period in 2019 before the pandemic hit. Despite the obvious visible impact of the pandemic, manufacturer and supplier representative Drinks Ireland suggests that the decrease represents a long-term trend of declining consumption. In terms of specifics, beer and cider sales appear to have been hit the hardest, down by 15% and 13%, respectively. According to the study, around 60% of beer sales and 45% of cider sales take place inside Ireland's pubs, restaurants and hotels. Alcohol consumption is down across the board, though. Wine accounts for an 11.5% dip, while spirits are factored in at a notably minimal 0.3% decrease.

"While the decline in alcohol consumption was accelerated by Covid-19, it should be noted that it is in line with the trend of consumption falling generally in Ireland over the past 30 years," said Patricia Callan, Director of Drinks Ireland.

"The average alcohol consumption in 2020 was 29.8% lower than the peak of 2001," added Callan. "Overall, alcohol consumption declined [in 2020] by 6.6% to its lowest level in 30 years."