Pubs have been warned that beer taps could run dry during the World Cup due to the US-Iran war, reports BritPanorama.
Concerns have been raised over a potential shortage of carbon dioxide (CO2), the gas essential for carbonating beverages, amidst the ongoing conflict in Iran.
With the World Cup set to commence in less than two months, there are worries that many establishments may find themselves low on beer supply.
Richard Bradbury, managing director of Theakston, emphasized the need for government intervention to support breweries, indicating that shortages have already become a significant concern.
He commented, “CO2 shortages are always of concern, both for brewers and pubs. So far, we have not experienced shortages nor are any expected in the short term, but we are concerned about implications for supply if the current Middle East situation continues.” Bradbury noted that while resilience efforts have been made over the past decade, the larger brewers are the only ones who can afford such investments.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, warned that breweries “would have an issue” if proactive measures are not taken.
McClarkin drew parallels to prior challenges posed by global events, stating, “It was a big issue for us with the war in Ukraine… At this moment, we are fine, but are we keeping a close eye on it? 100 per cent.”
In preparation for the World Cup, pubs in England have been granted permission to remain open until 2 am during matches featuring England or Scotland, a decision made by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood designed to enhance trade for the hospitality sector while fostering community spirit during major sporting events.
This move is set to benefit supporters, allowing them to watch additional knockout games in their local venues without seeking special licenses. The newly streamlined arrangements represent the first such extension in a decade for home nation knockout matches.
Under these new regulations, venues will be permitted to serve customers up to two hours past their usual closing times, with specifics depending on kickoff times. Matches commencing between 5 pm and 9 pm will push last orders back to 1 am, while those starting later will allow pubs to stay open until 2 am.
Mahmood emphasized the significance of these arrangements, saying, “If our boys are on the pitch, we want our fans to stay in the pub. So we’re giving pubs and bars an open goal to serve punters long after the last penalty hits the back of the net.” With football fervor filling the air, it promises to be a critical juncture for both sport and social gatherings.
