Are the supermarkets killing community pubs with irresponsibly cheap beer, wines and spirits?
Depends on how you look at it. I spend more money on alcohol at pubs and restaurants because I’m usually out with my friends. You are correct though that the cost of a 6 pack at the grocery compared to a pub or restaurant is greatly different. Remember this, the supermarket’s profit does not primarily depend on the sale of alcohol, so they can take a loss in alcohol sales knowing they will make up for it with sales of another kind. However, pubs are known for one thing, and that is alcohol. I think people know they are spending more at a pub compared to buying and drinking alcohol from the grocery. My opinion is no, the Government should not intervene. This would be like telling Wal-Mart or Meijer that cannot sell generic prescription medications for only $3 or $4. Besides, I’ve never heard of a grocery stores alcohol prices making business difficult on pubs and restaurants.
