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Fruit beers, radlers and the stout surge: keeping your tap list fresh

How pubs and bars can plan seasonal beer ranges, stock and staffing around changing tap-list demand.

beer trendsradlersstoutpubsstock planningbars
Craft beer taps and glasses for seasonal drinks planning
ProblemDemand unknownLast week gets copied too easily.
InsightForecast firstExpected trade shapes cover.
ActionReview actualsVariance improves next week.
ToolForecast checkDownload the CSV check.

Operational insight

A rota is stronger when expected trade is visible first, then reviewed against actuals so the next plan improves.

RotaSmart sales forecast screen showing forecast sales, budget target, rota cost, wage percentage, forecast health, and week context
Forecast and actuals sit before the rota decisionForecast sales, budget target, rota cost, wage percentage, forecast health, and week context sit together before staffing decisions.

Operator checklist

  • Mark known events, weather, bookings, and local pressure.
  • Separate wet, food, and daypart assumptions where useful.
  • Build labour from the forecast rather than habit.
  • Compare forecast to actuals after the week closes.

Quick answer

Changing a tap list is a stock and staffing decision. Forecast likely demand before ordering and make sure the team can explain new serves confidently.

Key takeaways

Beer and cider trends show a continuing appetite for variety. Fruit beers, radlers and stouts can all bring new energy to the tap list.

The challenge is keeping the range interesting without tying up cash in slow-moving stock.

The new craft generation

Fruit-infused beers and radler-style refreshers appeal to guests looking for lighter, flavourful options.

At the same time, stouts continue to perform well as customers rediscover rich, dark ales and seasonal serves.

What to stock

Start with a focused selection and track how each style performs by daypart and season.

Managing inventory and demand

Changing your tap list often means adjusting stock levels and staff rotas.

RotaSmart's sales forecasting helps predict how different beer styles perform throughout the year. The rota builder then helps ensure the right bar knowledge is on shift.

Want to keep your tap list fresh and profitable? Book a demo and see how predictive planning supports seasonal drinks.

Want to see this on your own week?

Walk through forecast, rota build, labour cost, wage percentage, and staff app flow with RotaSmart.