A survey by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has revealed that more than two-thirds of beer and wine served in UK pubs and bars are short measures. Officers from Trading Standards visited 77 pubs and bars, ordering 137 drinks. Of these orders, 96 were found to be short measures, amounting to approximately 70% of the surveyed samples. Forty-one drinks were under by five percent or more, affecting 29% of the ordered drinks.

In detail, 86% of all beer orders and 43% of all wine orders were found to be short measures. The survey indicated an average deficit of 4% for beer and 5% for wine. This results in an annual financial loss of £88.40 for the average beer drinker and £114.40 for the average wine drinker in the UK.

The largest short measure recorded was 15% under the prescribed amount for a 175ml glass of wine in Walsall, which cost £3.20. Other notable shortages included a 13.4% underpour in Belfast and a 12% underpour in Havering.

CTSI Chief Executive John Herriman emphasized the need for further comprehensive research on this issue. CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) National Chairman Nik Antona reinforced that consumers deserve a full measure of their drinks and should request a top-up if short measured. Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, stated that pubs aim to provide proper servings and consumers should ask for a top-up if the frothy head on beer is excessive. The survey highlights ongoing concerns about the accuracy of alcoholic drink measures in the UK hospitality sector.