Guinness popularity forces Diageo to 'manage' UK supply

The supply shortfalls in Britain and the US — where Guinness is now the fastest-growing imported beer — is not expected to affect Ireland

It is believed the spike in demand for Guinness in the UK may be due to the busy pre-Christmas period and a series of rugby internationals shown in British pubs. Picture: Patrick Bolger/Bloomberg

The rising popularity of Guinness has created a new headache for brewing giant Diageo which is having to manage the distribution of kegs to its UK customers due to 'exceptional' demand in recent weeks.

The Irish stout has long been one of Ireland's most popular and world-renowned drinks. The drink is considered a must-have for visiting tourists including US presidents.  In recent years, its popularity abroad has soared.