The Vintners Federation of Ireland say a planned price increase by Diageo is more bad news for pubs already grappling with soaring energy costs, inflation and the general increase in the cost of doing business.
The price increase will mean the price of a pint of Guinness by 12 cent excluding VAT for publicans, with the VFI warning that the increase will most likely have to be passed onto customers.
The groups says it's members are "extremely frustrated" about the move and are calling on Diageo to reconsider the move, which is due to come into effect on February 1st.
Speaking to RedFM News, Michael O'Donovan from the VFI in Cork says increase is further pressure for pubs that are already struggling:
"We're asking Diageo to reconsider this move because we're heading into January and February- probably the quietest month for the year. There's never a good time to have an increase but this is probably a bad time to do it when pubs are under pressure. Yes, look, we've had a good Christmas but with the costs increase, it's difficult. This puts further pressure on any business trying to survive."
