Key facts
- Heineken presentation warns of reduced beer sales due to weight-loss drugs.
- GLP-1 users are opting for smaller serves, lower-alcohol drinks, and premium products.
- US households with GLP-1 users reduced alcohol spending by 7% monthly, with beer down 13.5%.
Heineken has advised British pubs and bars to adapt to the increasing use of weight-loss drugs, warning that they could reduce beer sales. A company presentation seen by Reuters indicated that GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, can decrease the desire to drink, leading to fewer and smaller alcohol serves. The brewer suggested venues promote half-pints, low- and no-alcohol options, and small plates to mitigate potential declines in customer visits and spending. The alcohol industry is already facing declining sales in some markets due to health and economic reasons. Heineken stated it is monitoring evolving consumption behaviors among GLP-1 users, noting they are not abandoning alcohol but are opting for smaller, lower-alcohol, and more premium products. Spending data from US households with GLP-1 users showed a 7% reduction in monthly alcohol spending compared to non-users, with beer spending down 13.5%. Other industry players like Diageo and Carlsberg have expressed confidence in managing the impact, while some surveys suggest reduced drinking among GLP-1 users.