Britons spend more on booze than any other Europeans, analysts say

UK boozers spend more on alcohol than those in any other country in Europe, splashing out �1,272 per person a year, market analysts Datamonitor say.

But they predict the volume drunk by Britons will fall as people become more sophisticated in their tastes.

Consumer analyst Andrew Russell said: "Government pressure to drink less will have a big influence in coming years."

'Big spenders'

Datamonitor says although spending on alcohol is likely to keep rising, increased health awareness, an ageing population and pressure to scrap drinks promotions will alter habits.

The change in licensing laws is likely to see a more relaxing, continental-style drinking culture Andrew Russell Consumer analyst Why alcohol is addictive An alcoholic's story

Mr Russell added: "We have already seen a shift in habits with more fashionable bars, fewer old-style pubs and women feeling happy to drink with friends out and about.

"The change in licensing laws is also likely to see a more relaxing, continental-style drinking culture."

Datamonitor predicts UK drinkers will be spend �1,383 each on alcohol in 2008.

But in the same year it sees consumption falling to 171 litres per adult as quality wines and cocktails gain favour over the likes of �1-a-pint promotions in pubs.

Although Brits top the booze spending league, Germans consume the most at 215 litres per person a year, compared with 174 litres in the UK.