The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI) has strongly criticised the move by drinks giant Diageo. Pat Crotty, chief executive of the VFI, said: “This isn’t just about the price of a pint. This latest price increase from Diageo will put even more pressure on pubs that are already operating on extremely tight margins. "This includes an increase equivalent to €0.07 per pint of Guinness, and €0.10 per pint of Guinness 0.0, and will take effect from February 2.”It is understood that the price rises have come as a result of cost pressures at Diageo. Diageo does not ultimately decide the retail price of its products and, in theory, publicans are free to set those prices themselves.

Source: Irish Independent January 13, 2026 20:26 UTC