"High levels of unemployment and personal tax increases in Ireland continued to restrict consumer spending, particularly in the on trade," reported Diageo, "Guinness remained the best-selling beer in Ireland but net sales declined due to lower sales in the on-trade, while the volume of Diageo's packaged beer increased in the growing off-trade. Marketing spend on the brand increased, reflecting the growing momentum of 'Arthur's Day' and the Irish rugby sponsorship. Net sales of spirits grew two per cent and Diageo gained share led by the continued success of Captain Morgan with investment behind on-trade sampling and promotional activity."