Pubs cut hours

PUBS, cafes and restaurants are slashing opening hours to keep energy bills down.

Around a fifth (21%) of business in the food and drinks sector have cut trading hours, said the Office for National Statistics.

Meanwhile, 6% have reduced trading by two or more days a week to save energy. Rising energy bills are the biggest worry, say 58% of these businesses – jumping from 39% a month ago.

As a result, some 41% of food and drink hospitality businesses expect to push up their prices this month.