1
Manchester United have released a public response following a controversial Old Trafford decision that has sparked fan backlash.
United raises prices of food and drink at Old Trafford
United supporters at Saturday’s pre-season clash with Fiorentina were taken aback by steep price hikes for food and drink at Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim’s side won the contest via a penalty shootout after it ended in a 1-1 draw by the end of regular time.
Beyond the team’s evident shortcomings, what shocked fans even more was the revelation that beer prices had soared. The price of a bottle of Carling (500ml) has increased by 30 per cent and a pint of Madri has gone up by 51 per cent.
Moving forward, the United faithful will have to pay £4.95 for a bottle of Carling and £5.75 for their Madri pint.
United have blamed the price hikes on rising food and beverage costs.
United issue statement
When contacted by the Manchester Evening News for comment, a spokesperson stated, “For the last two seasons, we have trialled discounting beer following fan feedback.”
“Unfortunately, this has coincided with high increases in food & beverage (25-30%) in the last three years since kiosk prices were last reviewed holistically.”
“To reflect the increase in operating costs, and the rising cost of produce, for the 2025/26 campaign we will not be able to continue offering this discount and therefore some kiosk prices will increase.”
“Most notably, bottled Carling (500ml) will increase from £3.80 to £4.95 (which remains cheaper than 3 years ago), and a pint of Madri will increase from £3.80 to £5.75.”
“Although this is an increase on previous seasons, it still means a pint of beer is beneath the £6 average in the Premier League, and well beneath the average cost of a pint of beer at five local pubs to Old Trafford used by fans on match day (£6.29).”
“Based on prices known publicly, the revised pricing means Old Trafford will serve the 9th cheapest pint in the Premier League.”
The spokesperson added, “Meal deals remain available, and fans can pick up three items for £10.70 (£1 increase on 2024/25) and six items for £20 (£2.80 increase on 2024/25) offering good value for money (meal deals include 1 hot food item, typically grill-type e.g. pie or hot dog, 1 drink e.g. beer, wine, or soft drink, 1 snack e.g. chips/crisps or confectionery).”
United are back in action next Sunday when they kickstart their Premier League campaign with a home match against Arsenal.
Featured image Christopher Furlong via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
