Thursday is the new Friday for Australians heading to their local watering holes according to data from hospitality tap, order and pay provider me&u.

The data from me&u reveals in-venue ordering sales on Thursdays present similar patterns as observed over the weekend, with a spike being recorded in the last 12 months as consumers treat themselves ahead of the weekend with a mid-week tipple.

Thursdays have seen a 6% uplift in share of orders nationally during 2023. NSW constantly shows the highest share of Thursday orders in the week, up around 13%. However, year on year, Victoria has shown the highest uptick in Thursday orders, jumping up by 13.65%.

“Thursdays are the new Fridays for Australians to enjoy a refreshing drink at their favourite local spots,” said me&u CEO Katrina Barry.

“Our data at me&u confirms the growing trend of mid-week drinks across the country.”

“We have observed similar patterns in alcohol sales on Thursdays as we typically see over the weekend, indicating that consumers are treating themselves to a mid-week tipple ahead of the weekend.”

“With a recorded spike in afternoon sales and a notable preference for beer, it’s clear that Australians are embracing the concept of Thursday afternoons as an opportunity to unwind and socialise.

“This increase can also be largely attributed to a return to the office post COVID 19, Thursday afternoons have emerged as a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with colleagues or friends after a productive week.

“The data points to a shifting drinking culture in Australia, with Thursdays becoming an important part of the social calendar. Cheers to the rise of mid-week drinks!”

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