Publicans “at breaking point” as price of pint set to rise again! Diageo is the owner of Guinness, along with a number of other well-known drinks brands such as Smithwicks and Rockshore. The Vintners body says drink costs are the “single biggest cost” facing all publicans, who may be left with “no option” but to pass the latest price increase on to their customers. “If suppliers value the role pubs play in Irish life, now is the time to show it through meaningful support. “This isn’t just about the price of a pint,” says the VFI CEO, “It’s about the long-term viability of pubs across the country.

Source: Irish Independent January 14, 2026 20:38 UTC