Short measures in beer and wine across UK pubs and bars

Over two-thirds of pints of beer and glasses of wine being poured in pubs and bars in the UK have less drink than they should.

Introduction:

A recent report by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has revealed that 70% of beer and wine samples taken from pubs and bars across the UK are being short measured. This finding highlights significant discrepancies in serving sizes, leading to notable financial losses for consumers.

Financial Impact on Consumers:

The report estimated that the average beer drinker loses around £88.40 annually due to short measures, while wine drinkers face a loss of approximately £114.40 per year. Trading Standards has urged establishments to ensure accurate drink measurements to provide fair value to customers.

Rising Alcohol Prices:

The research arrives amid rapidly increasing alcohol prices. According to the Office for National Statistics, alcohol prices have surged by 6.1% over the past year, although inflation has recently slowed, with only a 0.3% increase last month. Labour MP Jess Phillips noted that short measures exacerbate the financial strain on consumers during the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Findings and Regional Discrepancies:

CTSI’s research found that, on average, short-measured beers were 4% less than a full pint, and wines were 5% below the 175ml standard glass. 

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The most significant short measure was found in Walsall, West Midlands, with a 15% deficit, or 26ml. Other large deficits were discovered in Belfast and Havering, east London.

Call for Broader Research:

Despite these findings, CTSI refrained from naming specific locations or chains involved, emphasizing the study’s snapshot nature and small sample size. The institute has called for more extensive research to address this issue comprehensively.

Industry Response:

John Herriman, CTSI’s chief executive, urged the hospitality sector to ensure accurate drink measurements for consumers. Conversely, Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, stated that landlords do not intend to short-serve customers and that consumers should feel free to request a top-up if needed.

Debate Over Beer Head:

The issue of whether the head should be counted as part of a pint remains contentious. CTSI measured beers as completely liquid, finding that even with a 5% industry-standard head discounted, a third of beers were still short measured. 

The Campaign for Real Ale advocates for consumers’ legal right to an entirely liquid pint, urging patrons to request top-ups when necessary.

Generational Views on Spirit Measurements:

Polling by Censuswide for CTSI revealed a generational divide on whether pubs should be allowed to pour spirits without a measuring device. About half of those under 45 supported this, while 59% of those aged 45 or older opposed it.

Conclusion:

The CTSI report sheds light on a prevalent issue in the UK’s hospitality sector, emphasizing the need for accurate drink measurements to ensure consumer trust and value for money. The findings call for immediate attention and corrective measures from pubs and bars across the country.