ABSTRACT
Over 40 million people consume alcoholic drinks in the United Kingdom and many millions more enjoy these beverages in Europe and the rest of the world. The drinks market is far from static, and over the past decade there have been some major changes in taste. The main growth in table wines has centred on white wine; and as the relative share held by vermouth has increased, so that held by port has decreased. Historically beer has been the most popular alcoholic drink in the UK and this has normally been consumed at the pub or club. The public house holds an important place in British drinking and social habits. The requirements of the consumers are met by the retailers. Wholesalers and importers vary in size from large companies to small organisations. Beer has a relatively short shelf life and so production follows consumption very closely. The production side of the industry is capital intensive.
