Guinness-maker Diageo has placed distribution limits on the stout to pubs in Great Britain for Christmas after “exceptional demand” over the past three weeks.

It is understood Diageo is working at 100% production capacity, but has still placed limits on orders that are well above what suppliers would normally make.

The drink has been rising in popularity with women and young people, and recent rugby internationals have put a strain on supplies.

Diageo has been upping its marketing efforts and working with influencers over the past few years to try and raise Guinness’ profile.