CGA by NIQ’s industry insights lead Tom Graham spotlighted the big trends to track at the recent Australian Pub Leaders Summit in Queensland—and here are five of his insights to help suppliers and operators adapt and succeed.
1 APAC outperforms global trends
CGA by NIQ’s data shows On Premise spending has been under pressure around the world lately, and global sales over the last quarter are down by 1.1% year-on-year. But the APAC region has been more resilient than most markets, and sales here have slipped just 0.1%. There are also some positive signs for the future, with 25% of consumers worldwide expecting to increase their visits to the On Premise in the next 12 months—more than the 19% who plan to go out less.
2 Consumers balancing finances
Australian consumers are involved in a delicate balancing act when it comes to their finances. Value for money is the leading factor influencing their choice of venue in 2025—but it’s important to remember this doesn’t necessarily mean cheap. Asked about what value means to them, 40% of consumers say it’s something that is worth the cost—double the number (20%) who think it’s a cheap option. People continue to have high expectations when they go out, and they’re willing to spend on premium drinks—but only if they are sure they’ll get the right quality. Price is particularly important in the spirits, cocktails and RTD categories.
3 Juggling health and treats
Globally, there’s been a steady shift from alcohol consumption to other drinks as more consumers focus on healthy lifestyles—and Australia is no exception. CGA by NIQ’s On Premise User Survey reveals that 37% of the country’s consumers drink occasionally and are more mindful of their consumption now, while 25% used to drink regularly but now choose to drink less. However, moderation doesn’t mean that people want to stop going to pubs. Three in five (61%) agree that although they are prioritising their health, they still see eating and drinking out as a treat and so don’t factor it into their choices.
4 Switching on and off
Consumers’ On Premise behaviour has been transformed by new digital habits, and it’s contributed to a drop in casual, everyday visits. But while they live online, people still want authentic and unique connections in the real world. This has led to increased interest in special and experience-led occasions, like themed events and live music. It’s also creating a new wave of ‘disconnection bars’, which nearly half (48%) of consumers find appealing.
5 Changing drinks habits
All these trends are shaking up consumers’ beverage selections in pubs. Moderation of alcohol is driving interest in soft drinks and no and low alcohol alternatives to beer and spirits. Demand for high quality is creating opportunities for premium brands and making serve execution and menu mechanics crucial. And while spirits are under pressure, there’s an opportunity to reinvigorate sales by emphasising value, taste and experiential elements. Suppliers and operators that can adapt nimbly to these and other shifts in preferences will be well placed to capitalise in Australia’s pubs over the rest of 2025 and beyond.
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