Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

IPPR Urges Alcohol Tax Hike to Combat Workplace Drinking Crisis

10/10/2025

32 2

Summary

Story summary

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) urges the government to raise alcohol taxes to address a productivity crisis linked to workplace drinking.
A survey shows nearly one in three workers called in sick after drinking at work events, with 43% of young adults affected.
IPPR also backs reintroducing the alcohol duty escalator and minimum unit price.
The hospitality sector warns tax hikes could worsen pressures on pubs and breweries.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) urges the government to raise alcohol taxes to address a productivity crisis linked to workplace drinking.
A survey shows nearly one in three workers called in sick after drinking at work events, with 43% of young adults affected.
IPPR also backs reintroducing the alcohol duty escalator and minimum unit price.
The hospitality sector warns tax hikes could worsen pressures on pubs and breweries.