Beer has accounted for the majority of sales through public houses since 2001 and is expected to account for 43% (nearly £7b) of the forecast £16.2b total pub turnover in 2006, according to the latest market report by Market & Business Development (MBD).

Meals represent the second biggest stream of income for pubs, and have represented 21% of total turnover since 2002. Sales are forecast to hit £3.76m in 2006.

The UK Public Houses Market Development report is compiled annually by Market & Business Development. It costs £550 for a single report or £660 for four quarterly reports.

Turnover of public houses in the UK, by product

* Other includes cigarettes and gaming machines

Source: MBD and trade estimates