The Consumer Price Index (CPI) – which measures the change in prices paid by consumers – rose by 3.6% in the 12 months to June 2025, according to the Office for National Statistics.

On a monthly basis, the CPI rose by 0.3% in June 2025, compared to a 0.1% rise in June 2024. 

The inflation was largely driven by transport and housing. However, alcohol was not immune. 

Breaking down the increase, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) told Drinks Retailing that almost all categories of alcohol were up in May 2025 and showed above-average inflation. 

The CPI of alcoholic beverages and tobacco as a joint category was up by 5.4% in May 2025 and 6.4% in June 2025. 

The CPI of alcoholic beverages alone increased by 5% in the 12 months to June 2025. 

Within this, to June 2025, the CPI for spirits increased by 4.9%, wine increased by 4.4% and beer increased by 6.3%. 

The sharpest increase within beer came from lager, which had an increased CPI of 7.4% to June 2025. 

Overall, this data clearly shows an increase in the price of alcohol for the average consumer.