British Pubs Facing Closure at Rate of One a Day in 2025 Due to High Taxes, Trade Body Warns
The British Beer and Pub Association predicts that 378 pubs will close this year in England, Scotland, and Wales, leading to the loss of 5,600 jobs. High business taxes, including business rates, beer duty, and VAT, are cited as major challenges. The industry is calling on the government to reform taxes and reduce costs to save the struggling pubs.
British pubs are facing a crisis as the industry's trade body warns that one pub a day is expected to close down this year due to high business taxes. The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) predicts 378 pub closures in England, Scotland, and Wales, leading to a loss of 5,600 jobs. This trend continues from last year's 350 closures and a total of over 15,000 pubs shutting down since 2000.
The BBPA points to business rates as a major burden on the industry, urging the government to reform this tax. Pubs often face high business rates due to occupying valuable buildings while operating on slim profit margins. Other significant costs include beer duty, VAT, and increased national insurance contributions.
Emma McClarkin, the chief executive of BBPA, emphasizes the financial challenges faced by pubs, calling for meaningful reform in business rates and relief from new employment and waste disposal costs. The sector is also grappling with soaring energy costs, impacting its profitability.
Despite these challenges, some pubs have seen increased sales due to recent warm weather, with Young's reporting 7% sales growth at established sites. The company remains optimistic about the future, despite industry-wide challenges.
According to the source: The Guardian.
What's Your Reaction?
Like
0
Dislike
0
Love
0
Funny
0
Angry
0
Sad
0
Wow
0
