Diageo has ‘difficult’ year as Guinness sales stay flat

DIAGEO said trading was “particularly difficult” in Ireland over the last year as sales of Guinness remained flat.

It said, however, that it performed ahead of the total alcoholic drinks sector here, with its brands accounting for 42% of the total market.

Guinness grew its market share in the pub trade by 1.3%, meaning one in every three pints sold in Ireland is Guinness.