Warning over future of 15,000 pubs if shutdown is extended
UP TO 15,000 pubs could permanently close if they are not allowed to reopen until the end of September, an industry boss has warned.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said the coronavirus pandemic had been “devastating” for the sector financially.
And she warned pubs could be facing a “double hit” when they reopen as changes to consumer behaviour could see them reluctant to socialise in large numbers.
Ms McClarkin said it was now vital the Government agrees to provide financial support to the industry even after pubs begin trading again.
“I am very, very worried about the sector,” Ms McClarkin said. “If you are looking [to reopen pubs] at the end of summer, it is looking very stark indeed.
“We could be losing 40 per cent
of our businesses if they do not open by the end of September.”
Ms McClarkin said the figure equates to about 15,000 pubs and breweries.
On how pubs will operate in the future, she said staff will likely greet customers at the door and show them to a table to take their order – rather than at the bar.
Staff could also be required to
monitor toilets to ensure patrons are abiding by social-distancing measures. Ms McClarkin said the vision of people cramming into pubs once they eventually reopen was “something of the past”.
The Government is currently offering hospitality businesses grants of up to £25,000 if their rateable value is less than £51,000.