Wetherspoon’s warns it could run out of beer due to CO2 shortage

Supply problems hit at busy time for pubs as World Cup kicks off

Wetherspoon’s has warned it’s at risk of running out of beer, because of an ongoing global carbon dioxide shortage.

Earlier this week, it emerged that beer, fizzy drinks and meat producers are concerned about possible shortages caused by a lack of CO2, caused by a longer than usual break in production of ammonia, one of the key sources of food grade CO2 in Europe.

According to Wetherspoon’s spokesperson Eddie Gershon, Heineken has already been in touch because of their “issues with CO2 and that is likely to affect the supply and availability of certain beers and ciders”.

“We are fully aware of the situation,” Mr Gershon added.

“At present, none of our pubs have been affected and are offering their full range of drinks.

"We are monitoring the situation closely with our suppliers, in order to minimise any disruptions that might occur.”

The supply problems could hit in the middle of the busy World Cup season, with consumers set to spend millions of pounds at pubs and restaurants during the tournament.

Brigid Simmonds, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “We are aware of a situation affecting the availability of CO2 across Europe, which has now started to impact beer producers in the UK.

“Given the time of year and the World Cup, this situation has arisen at an unfortunate time for the brewing industry.”