Brits spending record sums in the pub
Millions of Britons are still spending large quantities of their cash in the pub, according to research from Mintel.
A survey by the research firm shows that Brits spent a record £17.2 billion in pubs last year, more than double the £7.2 billion spent on other popular leisure activities, such as the cinema and bingo, combined.
However, the report points out that people are becoming less eager to stay out late, with clubbing falling in popularity. The market was worth £2.2 billion in 1998, Mintel reveals, but has fallen to just £1.7 billion in 2002.
Brits are turning to health and beauty concerns instead, with almost £3 billion spent in health clubs last year, compared to just £2 billion in 1998.
Betting is also becoming more popular, particularly after the recent abolition of betting tax and gambling reached a record £7.4 billion in 2002.
Mintel found that more family orientated activities such as meals out and foreign holidays have also received a recent spending boost in the UK.
