Concern has emerged among Clare publicans that a seismic shift in post-pandemic socialising will result in the widespread closure of businesses.
It comes as new figures show alcohol consumption last year was down on pre-covid levels.
Provisional data from Revenue shows the consumption of alcohol is continuing to decline sharply, with Ireland moving closer to European norms.
Overall, alcohol consumption is down by over 5% last year on 2019 levels, with beer consumption down by 3%, wine down by just under 3% and cider consumption down by 12%.
Spirits sales saw an increase though.
The Chair of Clare VFI says there’s been a societal shift in the way people have been socialising in the wake of the pandemic and many are now drinking at home in an uncontrolled manner.
Charlie O’Meara says the change could be seen coming down the tracks.
One Ennis publican says this shift in behaviour also has a knock-on effect for local businesses, with many finding it harder to maintain a healthy bottom line.
Daragh McAllister says rising costs are making it more and more difficult for them to keep their doors open and he believes that will have consequences for the traditional trade in the future.
Listen to an interview with Charlie O’Meara and Daragh McAllister below
