Restrictions on socialising and mass gatherings linked to the coronavirus have resulted in an increase in alcohol sales in off licences, with one operator saying business peaked after school closures were announced. The Government has also called on pubs and bars to close until March 29th in response to the pandemic. Off licence operators say these measures have resulted in increased footfall and sales, particularly of fine wines. “They’re not panicking or anything, they’re all very calm, but a lot of people are coming in and buying big,” he said. Asked why the company did not proceed with online sales, he said: “There would be less people involved but there would still be people involved.

Source: The Irish Times March 16, 2020 15:45 UTC