18 February 2024 , 17:59
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For 28 years behind the bar, 14 of them in my own pubs, I’ve poured my soul into every glass I’ve served, from TV studio watering holes to my own countryside pub in Leicestershire.
During this time, as an industry we have changed and adapted with the times; nobody ever said running a pub was going to be easy. But these past few years, a combination of factors outside our control (like the pandemic, energy costs and inflation) and some deliberate policy choices came together to make running these beloved institutions almost impossible.
I’m speaking for thousands of publicans and their communities today, on the future of our establishments.
The financial challenges we face in the pub industry are daunting. Twenty percent VAT added to every meal we sell and the outdated business rates system squeeze us further. And now the cost of living crisis makes people think twice about visiting us: This Valentines Day nearly 4 million people who go to the pub on dates said they wouldn’t be heading to their local as usual due to rising costs, according to polling carried out by the British Beer and Pub Association. Even where that is not the case, our businesses are struggling.
For 28 years behind the bar, 14 of them in my own pubs, I’ve poured my soul into every glass I’ve served (Peter Harbour)I have spoken personally with a number of publicans who say they’re busier than ever, but still losing money and working for free as the cost of doing business reaches unprecedented highs. If those operating them cannot make a living, bring up their families and maybe even plan for the future, they will close their doors and communities will lose their social hubs. More than 500 pubs closed last year.
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It is important to note with this call to action that as an industry we are not seeking a “free pass”. Seasoned operators are used to navigating economic headwinds and the associated challenges of running a small business. But we are now asking for a more level playing field, a chance to thrive not just survive, and continue contributing at both micro- and macro-socioeconomic levels.
With the Spring Budget and upcoming elections, there’s a timely opportunity for politicians and legislators to show their support for our industry - not simply use it as a prop by pulling a pint when they are on the campaign trail! For instance, a reduction in VAT stands out as the most effective measure to ease our burden, benefiting not just pubs and consumers but the entire supply chain we support.
Beyond that, the government can look into lowering beer duty - which is currently 12 times that of Germany - and permanent reform of business rates, to give pubs a fair chance of survival.
We need a unified effort from policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the British public to save our pubs. With targeted support from the government and a collective will to act, I believe we can secure a future where our pubs continue to welcome all, serving as the communal living rooms of our nation where life, in all its richness, unfolds.