Is the recession truly over? Searcys takes sparkling wine off its menus as champagne sales fizz

The recession is truly over — champagne bar chain Searcys has started taking sparkling wine off its menus as drinkers instead choose to go more upmarket.

Managing director Chris Maddison today said the decision to remove sparkling wine from some of its outlets was made “because its popularity against the real thing has waned massively”.

He added: “Champagne sales growth in the bars has been significantly outstripping economic growth since coming out of recession.”

Figures from the Wine and Spirit Trade Association last month showed champagne sales were up 9% in pubs and bars for the three months to mid-July, and up 6% in shops.

A survey by Searcys to mark National Champagne Week, which starts on Monday, showed big events such as engagements, marriages and getting a new job were driving sales of the tipple.

“Champagne is all about marking occasions,” said Maddison. “During recession, there is no doubt there are fewer of these opportunities in people’s lives as they take fewer risks in terms of decision-making.

"We expect champagne sales to enjoy a very strong finish to the year and to continue growing in 2015.”

Searcys has bars and restaurants across London, including in St Pancras International Station.