Man United have increased the prices of food and drink on the concourses at Old Trafford ahead of the new season.United have increased kiosk prices.(Image: 2025 Getty Images)

Manchester United have blamed rising food and beverage costs for the increase in beer prices at Old Trafford.

Concerns were initially raised last month when a photo showing concourse prices from Soccer Aid circulated on social media. United said prices were still undecided, but they have now confirmed a hike for beer.

Fans who attended the Fiorentina friendly on Saturday were stung by increased costs, with the price of bottle of Carling (500ml) increasing by 30 per cent and a pint of Madri increasing by 51 per cent.

Supporters have already complained about the price increases, and more fans will be affected when Old Trafford is at full capacity for the opening Premier League game of the season.

The Manchester Evening News contacted United for comment and a spokesperson said: “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.

“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).”

Over the last few years, local Mancunians have argued they are being priced out of attending matches at Old Trafford, and United received intense backlash over ticket prices last term.

United made the mid-season decision to raise matchday ticket prices to £66 per game in the Premier League, with no concessions for children or pensioners.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe added fuel to the fire in his interview with the United We Stand magazine, saying that “it doesn’t make sense” for a United ticket to cost less than a ticket to watch London-club Fulham.

United supporter group The 1958 are set to protest again before Arsenal on Sunday.

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