Adnams has teamed up with Wizard Inns, the managed operator, to install water-cooled hands pumps that ensure pints are served at the optimum temperature, in a move which has seen sales of real ale rise steadily across the group's estate.
In marked contrast, Punch has seen a sharp fall in real ale sales, which has been attributed to its decision to focus on lager. Lager volumes in Punch pubs increased by 5.8% for the year to March, while ale volumes dropped 3.6% in Punch inns and 3.7% across the Pubmaster estate. The lager mix now accounts for 58% in Punch pubs, and 51% in Pubmasters.
Nationally, real ale sales fell by 1% over the period, according to the latest figures from AC Nielsen, making Wizard's improvement more impressive.
Wizard's new pumps, which cost £400 each, come recommended by Cask Marque, and circulate water cooled in the cellar around beer lines. "We are selling more real ale – and we are going to increase from three to four ales," said Phil Griffin, manager at the Griffin in London. "When we get into the summer, when real ale sales can tail off, we will really see the benefits of these pulls."
Although Adnams is installing the pumps, other brewers whose products are contributing to the costs, as their brands benefit from the system.
Chris Hutt, Wizard's managing director and a former chairman of Camra commented: "Cask ales need to command a retail price premium, reflecting the added cost of small batch production and quality ingredients. We want our customers to appreciate the flavours, craft and quality of ales."
However Francis Patton, Punch's commercial director, said his company's focus on lager had meant higher profits. He said: "Lager is sold at a higher retail price, so this is good for everybody," but added: "My personal view is that we can't afford to lose cask ale, because it is what makes the British pub unique. One thing you can't buy in Europe, or in the supermarket, is cask-conditioned beer."
