Even before Diageo’s recent price hike for pubs across Ireland, Guinness prices were already rising in Belfast. The British multinational alcoholic company, owner of brands like Harp, Smithwick’s, Hop House 13, and Smirnoff, announced an additional 6c per pint increase in Ireland, or 4p in Northern Ireland, from 3 February.

Despite this, several bars in Belfast have not yet increased the cost to their customers. In August, the Pint Tracker website recorded the average price of Guinness in Belfast at £5.65, rising to £5.75 before Diageo’s hike took effect. This remains above Dublin’s average price, which increased from €5.62 to €5.70 (£4.78) over the same period.

The Duke of York, one of Belfast’s most renowned pubs, confirmed it had already raised its Guinness price by 50p to £6.50. Meanwhile, Kelly’s Cellars reported a 20p increase, bringing its pint price to £5.60.

Some bars, however, disputed their listings on Pint Tracker. The Deer’s Head and Harp Bar were said to have increased prices to £6.80 and £6.70, respectively, but both stated their prices remained at £6.50.

Hospitality Ulster declined to comment on Diageo’s price change. Still, it previously criticised the UK Chancellor’s 1p reduction in draught duty as an “insult”, warning of further price hikes due to rising supplier costs.

Reports in January suggested Diageo might sell Guinness or its 34% stake in Moët Hennessy, as its shares hit their lowest level since 2017. Despite this, Guinness remains the UK’s top-selling beer, surpassing Carling in 2022. Bloomberg estimated the Irish stout business could be worth over £8bn if floated on the stock market.