Beer consumers in Ghana shift to local dry gin (akpeteshie)

Investigations conducted by The Chronicle in the Brong-Ahafo Region have revealed that consumers of alcoholic beverages are gradually shifting from the intake of beer to local dry gin popularly referred to as ‘akpeteshie’ because of price increase.

Most of the bar attendants who were interviewed, told The Chronicle that those who used to consume two to three bottles of beer had been forced to reduce their consumption rate, due to the economic effects it may have on their income. A bottle of beer, which used to sell GH¢2.50, is now selling between GH¢3.50 and GH¢4.00.

The National Women’s Organiser of the Drinking Bar Operators Association, Mrs. Jane Amankwaah, confirmed the investigative report when she addressed a meeting of the bar operators in Sunyani recently. She expressed concern over the price increase in alcoholic beverages, which, according to her, had slowed down business.

Mrs. Amankwaah stressed that though the increase of the alcoholic drinks had affected their daily sales, operators ought to maintain the market price of the products to ensure sustainability of their businesses.

She disclosed that the association’s national executives were working hand-in-hand with producers and distributors of the drinks and other key stakeholders to address odd challenges in the industry.

She advised the members to ensure that their employees dressed decently, because they were always exposed to all characters of people, entreating them to strive for excellence in customer care delivery.

Mr. Solomon Opoku, Brong-Ahafo Regional Chairman of the association, advised non-registered operators to register, explaining that the meeting was organised to pave the way for members to interact and help tackle the diverse problems affecting their businesses.

Mr. Opoku was optimistic that the relationship between the two association branches would be strengthened for mutual benefit.

Mr. Joseph Damoah, National Second Vice President of the Association, called for stronger collaboration between the association and institutions such as the Ghana Tourism Authority.