BRITAIN could run out of beer this summer as brewery workers strike – threatening stocks of Stella Artois and Becks.
Pint-lovers could go “thirsty” as temperatures soar after unions voted to take action in a row over pay.
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Walkouts are planned at Budweiser’s main factory, where Bud, Stella Artois, Boddingtons and Becks are brewed.
It comes as fun-lovers prepare for a season of festivals and sporting events.
Stephen Boden of union GMB said: “The last thing these workers want to do is jeopardise beer supplies just as the hot weather kicks in.
“But they’ve been pushed into this by bosses essentially slashing their wages during a cost of living crisis.
“Anyone fancying a pint of Budweiser, Stella Artois, Becks, Boddingtons or Export Pale Ale could go thirsty this summer.”
More than 200 staff at the beer giant’s Samlesbury site, near Preston in Lancashire, are set to down tools on two days a week from June 6.
They’ve rejected a final pay increase offer of three per cent for the rest of this year, as well as 2023.
A spokeswoman for Budweiser Brewing Group said: “We are hopeful that through a continued, open dialogue we can still reach a mutually acceptable way forward.
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“The teams have plans in place to minimise the impact on customers and supply.
“Budweiser Brewing Group has a positive and long-standing relationship with the GMB.
“However, despite open and comprehensive negotiations, the GMB has confirmed that industrial action is going ahead at our Samlesbury brewery in June.
“Our people are our greatest strength, and as such we are proud to offer a competitive package – rated in the 90th percentile – with benefits that include private medical cover and bonuses.”
If the strike does go ahead, it could drive up the price of a pint as Brits face financial hardship amid the cost of living crisis.
ALE OF WOE
Due to rising inflation, the cost is already shooting from a UK average of £4.07 to a whopping £4.40, reaching an eye-watering £5.22 in London.
Marston’s Brewery – one of the country’s largest chains – recently announced a hike of between 20p and 45p per beer.
Last month, Environment Secretary George Eustice warned the price of supermarket staples is set to rise by up to 8 per cent as inflation grips.
It will see the average food shop for each household in the country rise by a fiver a week, from £63.70 to £68.80.
Meanwhile a typical family of four will be see their bills rocket by £32 a month, hitting a high of £428.
Other staples will also increase in price, adding 10p to a typical loaf of bread, 5p to a pint of milk and 18p to a dozen eggs.
