Thirst For Glory! Tartan Army Roared Through the Night as Scots Packed Pubs for Opening Match

From the first pint poured to the final whistle, Scotland’s triumphant opening clash sparked a massive night for pubs, with football fans flocking to their locals to soak up the atmosphere together.

HEINEKEN UK said its Scottish Star Pubs managed estate saw a triple digit surge in trade for one of the biggest nights in Scottish football in a generation. The late kick-off and extended opening created the perfect storm for a bumper night behind the bar.

Despite the 2am kick off, sales were up nearly 160%1 across Saturday evening and into Sunday morning, with lager sales up 138% and cider sales up 199%.  Over 16% of the total sales were made between 1.30am and 2.30am showing fans were keen to get their drinks in for the first half2.

The boost came after moves that allowed pubs to remain open so supporters could watch the match in full, giving communities across Scotland the chance to come together for a landmark sporting moment.

Lawson Mountstevens, Managing Director of Star Pubs, said: “This was exactly the kind of night pubs were made for. Scotland fans wanted to experience the opening game together, and their local was the place to do it. The atmosphere was electric, the demand was huge, and it was a brilliant boost for pubs at a time when big occasions like this really matter. The ability for pubs to stay open meant fans could enjoy every moment together, right through to the early hours.”

Craig Smalley, Operator, Tally Ho pub in Winchburgh, West Lothian, said: “The pub was absolutely incredible from well before kick-off, right through to the final whistle. Having operated in some of the busiest sports venues in Edinburgh, I have seen first-hand what a World Cup can bring to a venue but it was hard to know what it would be like here at Tally but the village of Winchburgh turned up in their numbers and the team showed just what they are made of! The atmosphere was unbelievable - singing from the kick-off, locals rocking up with bagpipes just to entertain the crowd, dancing at every opportunity, then the nerves turned into pure relief at the final whistle. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen so many adults hugging anyone they could within reach!