Brewery boss Grant slams ‘Dry January’ initiative
A NORTH West brewery boss has warned that campaigns to encourage an alcohol-free January could hit jobs in the leisure sector.
David Grant, who runs Moorhouse’s, a Burnley-based brewery, slammed “do-gooders” promoting ‘Dry January’ and abstinence for the months, which is always a difficult trading period.
He said: “Yes, many pubs have enjoyed good a Christmas. But there are still some 20 pubs closing each month and publicans do not need a January black hole.
“My concern is this campaign for a dry January that could keep customers away. Pubs are part of our heritage and the best place to drink sensibly and socialise in a secure and controlled environment. We should all encourage that.
“Do the “do-gooders” not realise that the leisure industry is the largest employer in the country? If they persist in this sort of campaign pub and restaurant staff could be laid off as the December trade boost is lost in January.
Moorhouse’s, which makes the Blond Witch and Black Cat beers, said it had sold 8% more beer in December 2013 on the same month in 2012.
It saw growth of 55% for special festive beers and a 35% uplift in its bottle range, sold through leading supermarkets. Fastest growing brand Blond Witch grew by some 13%.
Mr Grant said: “It was a good festive season. Our sales with pub companies have greatly helped the seasonal specials. The year ahead will be challenging, as we compete against the every increasing number of micro brewers. But we are confident that the growth strategy we put in place in 2013 will yield positive results for the success of our new brewery.”
