It was one of their most popular beers
Wetherspoons has announced it is discontinuing a major beer brand in a matter of days despite its popularity with punters.
The pub chain informed staff that after November, it will no longer stock San Miguel.
Alternatively, the pub will be offering customers Italian Poretti instead which will be priced at less than £4 a pint at most locations.
However, staff are concerned there will be backlash from some punters as San Miguel is one of their best selling drinks.
It is a move that has divided opinion with one spoons customer writing on Facebook: “Am gutted to hear that! San Miguel is my absolute favourite.”
Meanwhile another argued: “San Miguel is horrific though, the one Spanish beer I never drink.”
The replacement lager is made by the Birrificio Angelo Poretti Brewery founded by Angelo Poretti.
It is 4.8% ABV with four hop varieties. Poretti describes it as ‘a beer brewed to pair with food’.
It reads: “Our 4 Hops produce a mild body and balanced bitterness, making it perfect to pair with food and elevate dining moments.”
One customer had a theory as to why Wetherspoons has parted ways with San Miguel suggesting that it was to do with the end of San Miguel’s contract with Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company.
In July, Carlsberg confirmed in a statement that its exclusive San Miguel license deal would end on 31 December.
Mahou San Miguel has instead joined with Budweiser Brewing Group.
The Sun previously reported that Wetherspoons boss Tim Martin had warned prices will increase after last month’s budget.
The chain’s tax bill is expected to rise by two-thirds next year after the Chancellor announced a hike in the national insurance for employers.
Martin said: “Cost inflation, which had surged to high levels in 2022, gradually diminished over the subsequent two years.
“However, it has now significantly increased again following the budget. All hospitality businesses, we believe, plan to increase prices, as a result.”
