Brits to spend £168 million on Guinness this St. Patrick's Day - here's how to beat Guinness-flation in London this weekend

As millions flock to pubs to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this weekend, new research by NetVoucherCodes reveals that Brits are set to spend a staggering £167.8 million on pints of Guinness - a £46.9 million increase from last year’s festivities.

On top of this, the research found:

-Irish celebration-fuelled hangovers could cost British businesses £339 million in lost employee productivity next week

-The average cost of a pint of Guinness is expected to rise from £5.18 to £5.40 nationally by May 2025 due to a 4.2% inflation increase, and is set to reach £6.80 by 2030

-Gen Z phenomenon ‘Splitting the G’ costs an average of £2.28 just to participate in, and is most expensive in London (£2.59).

Ellie Macsymons, consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes offers tips and advice for consumers to avoid Guinness Inflation this St. Patrick’s Day weekend and beyond.

Ellie's four tips to avoid Guinness inflation this St. Patrick’s Day weekend and beyond:

Don’t feel the pressure to ‘split the G’

“Brits have a well-known affection for Guinness, and our research reveals UK adults are set to spend £167.8 million on pints of Guinness this St Patrick's Day weekend - an increase of £46.9 million compared to last year's 2024 celebrations.

Guinness drinkers should exercise caution as while the rising Split the G" trend has captured the attention of Gen Z, the challenge encourages individuals to down 45% of a pint in one gulp, burning through an average of £2.28 per successful attempt. This rises to £2.59 in London per drink, meaning "Splitting the G" in a group of four will now set you back over a tenner.

With up to £35.3 million expected to be spent on "splitting the G" this St. Patrick's Day weekend, Brits attempting the viral challenge could risk overspending if they’re not careful. Taking your time and enjoying your pint at a comfortable pace can help avoid overindulgence - and keep your spending in check.

Pub loyalty doesn’t pay – plan your route

"Prices for a pint of Guinness can vary significantly between pubs, so don’t just stick to your regular spot. Use pub pint finders or check local prices beforehand to map out where you can get the best deals while enjoying the St. Patrick’s Day atmosphere."

Don’t let FOMO drain your wallet

"It’s easy to feel pressured to spend more to keep up with your friends, but setting a clear spending limit before heading out can help you avoid unnecessary splurging. Check your wallet first and stick to your budget to ensure you don’t regret it the next day."

Skip the St. Patrick’s Day merch

"Avoid spending money on one-time-use St. Patrick’s Day outfits or accessories. Instead, wear green clothing or accessories you already own to get in the spirit without breaking the bank."