Beamish & Crawford to freeze prices

Beamish & Crawford will not be applying any increase to the price of any of their brands, it was announced today.

This decision comes in light of the recent announcement of price increases by other alcohol manufacturers.

“Our competitors are citing increased costs in energy, labour and raw materials as their reason for increasing the price of their products,” said Alf Smiddy, managing director of Beamish & Crawford.

“We too are experiencing these increases. However, we do not accept that a second price increase in one year can be justified. We think it’s wrong to do so and we call on our competitors to reconsider their decision.

“The big challenge facing business in Ireland is that it needs to take serious steps to restore competitiveness, and in turn reignite consumer confidence. We believe that it is not appropriate for suppliers to apply a second price increase in any one year.

“In acknowledging increased costs we will continue to seek ways to manage our overhead so we don’t have to pass this financial burden onto our customers and consumers.

“The ongoing decline in draught beer sales has been well documented, and we believe that further increasing prices will only drive consumers from the pub”

Welcoming Beamish & Crawford's decision, Padraig Cribben, chief executive of the Vintners' Federation of Ireland said: “Our, members, the publicans throughout the country, welcome Beamish & Crawford's decision and commend them on their support of our sector.

“Beamish & Crawford's stance demonstrates real understanding of the current plight of our sector and is one worthy of support.”

Donall O'Keeffe, chief executive of the Licensed Vintners' Association said “Dublin publicans welcome Beamish & Crawford's decision, particularly against the background of the ongoing decline in draught beer sales.”

Beamish & Crawford’s portfolio of brands includes Beamish Genuine Irish Stout, Beamish Red Irish Ale, Miller Genuine Draft, Foster’s, San Miguel, Kronenbourg 1664 and Carling.