Pubs are encouraging people to support their local boozer this month despite the dry January trend.
The industry is battling back from an economic downturn and rocketing energy bills, and publicans say they desperately need people to go and have a drink -even if it’s non-alcoholic.
Those who hoped to encourage some Christmas shoppers were dashed by rail and TfL strikes preventing them from getting there.
And recent figures from real estate adviser Altus group, revealed that more than 32 pubs in England and Wales had shut for the final time in 2022 due to mounting pressures.
Fight to survive
The Night Time Industries Association previously reported that trade over Christmas was substantially down compared to 2019.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) said the group was encouraging people to seek out their community hubs and visit with friends and family at their local.
“Not only will you be greeted with warmth and friendly faces, but you’ll be supporting much-loved businesses that urgently need help to survive,” she added.
Weathering the storm in 2023
Pubs and restaurants face challenges this year as cash-strapped consumers slash spending and the government reduces its energy bills support – forcing many to cut their opening hours.
The industry has battled food inflation, soaring energy bills and major staffing shortages – and it goes on into this year.
Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said businesses were concerned going into the first few months of the year, already a quieter time for pubs and restaurants, with many opting to cut capacity by a fifth.
“The fear is that people will tighten their belts quite considerably. That’s when the cost of living will bite. And you’ll see customers not going out as frequently.”
