HAPPY HOUR for SMALL PUBS

The figures also show that turnover in the sector increased by £847m (3.8%) in 2017, after taking inflation into account.

Turnover in the pub industry is now at its highest level since the financial crisis of 2007 to 2008.

There has also been an increase in jobs in the sector, with the number of people employed rising by 7,000 between 2018 and 2019.

The statistics show customers are now spending more on eating out and less on drinking out.

This change has been reflected in the staff that pubs employ - with more staff now serving food than working behind the bar.

In 2003, four in every ten pub staff were bar staff, and food staff made up three in every ten.

However, since 2016 the reverse has been true.

Nik Antona, CAMRA National Chairman said: “We cautiously welcome the trend these figures suggest, that small pubs and bars are beginning to ‘bounce back’ after years of decline and figures have increased between 2018-2019 nationally.

“Unfortunately pubs continue to close across the country, particularly in small or rural communities.

“This means the loss of the social, cultural and economic benefits that come with a well-run local.

“To ensure pubs survive and thrive, they need a fair tax system and stability going forward.

“CAMRA continues to call on the Government for a review of the business rates system, as was promised in the Conservative general election manifesto, and a lower rate of tax on beer sold in pubs.

“We urge that these asks are reflected in the forthcoming Budget to help save the great British pub.”

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