It's last orders for more than 400 pubs as cost pressures continue to rise
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The number of pubs in England and Wales has fallen below 39,000 for the first time, with a total of 412 locals closing their doors permanently this year, new figures have disclosed. Government figures show these establishments were either demolished or repurposed from January to December. Altus Group's analysis indicates that the total count of pubs, including those vacant or up for lease, is now at 38,989.
On average, more than 34 pubs per month have been bidding farewell, marking an increased pace in the disappearance of these community staples. This drop is the most significant since 2021, a year when the industry suffered greatly due to COVID-19 restrictions and soaring energy costs. Since the beginning of 2020, the UK has seen over 2,000 pubs vanish.
These latest numbers emerge against a backdrop of escalating expenses and consumer spending wariness, exacerbated by higher mortgages and rents. Come April next year, several autumn Budget policies will kick in, likely causing a steep rise in operating costs for many pub owners.
Alex Probyn of Altus Group expressed concern from publicans: "Many publicans that I speak to are extremely worried that this could be their last Christmas given the combination of hiking the amount employers will have to pay in National Insurance, increases to the minimum wage and the business rates discount being slashed from 75% to 40% in 2025.".
