JD Wetherspoons, a large pub chain in the United Kingdom is replacing San Miguel with an Italian lager
British pub chain JD Wetherspoon is discontinuing the popular San Miguel lager, originally from the Philippines, across its 850-plus venues by the end of November, a decision that has left staff anticipating customer dissatisfaction.
San Miguel will be replaced by the Italian beer Poretti, which will retail at £3.99 a pint.
Some Wetherspoon staff members have reportedly expressed concerns about the switch. Regular customers have also begun voicing their displeasure upon learning that their preferred lager will no longer be available, according to sources. The anticipation of complaints has created unease among employees who foresee challenges in satisfying customer preferences.
The decision to switch follows the impending dissolution of the 15-year partnership between Mahou San Miguel (MSM) and Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC), the distributor responsible for bringing San Miguel to the UK market.
This change in distribution agreements is the primary reason behind the lager’s removal from Wetherspoons’ offerings.
San Miguel, a Filipino pale lager established in Manila in 1890, has become one of Britain’s popular beers and was named the nation’s favourite in a recent YouGov poll in October.
Its replacement, Poretti, originates from the Birrificio Angelo Poretti brewery, founded in 1877 by Angelo Poretti in Italy. The lager is described as a full-flavoured Italian beer with a pillowy white head, brilliant clarity, and a refreshing taste.
Wetherspoons is promoting Poretti to its staff as a brew with significant heritage, aiming to highlight its historical roots and quality. The chain hopes that customers will appreciate the new offering once they experience its flavour profile and learn about its background.
In London, a pint of San Miguel at a Wetherspoons pub costs just under £7, making the introduction of Poretti at £3.99 a potentially more attractive option for cost-conscious consumers.
Nationwide, the average price of a pint of San Miguel stands at £5.55, though prices vary depending on location. The lower price point of Poretti may appeal to patrons looking for more affordable choices.
Despite the potential for savings, some customers remain sceptical about the change, expressing a preference for the familiar taste of San Miguel.
