Publicans and brewers across England are raising their glasses today as Plan B restrictions come to an end. But the sector is calling for government support as the devasting impact of Omicron on one of the most profitable parts of the year becomes clear.
Trading was down 30% on average across England during the second half of December, compared with 2019, according to data from CGA.
The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) is urging further government support to combat the increasing financial pressures, to ensure our pubs remain open for consumers, having recently relaunched its Long Live The Local campaign.
The campaign urges the government to provide long-term support by:
- extending the current lower rate of VAT
- lowering beer duty
- and reforming the business rates system to reduce the disproportionate tax burden on pubs
However, the return to office working for many, and a move back to Plan A measures, will increase footfall in towns and cities and boost already rising consumer confidence, according to the BBPA.
CGA’s Consumer Pulse survey of 2,000 nationally representative consumers indicates more than two-thirds (70%) now feel confident about visiting pubs, bars, and restaurants. That figure is double the number (34%) who felt confident at the start of 2021, and a sharp increase on the figure of 52% from CGA’s research in July.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA, said: “Plan B decimated consumer confidence and, in turn, our trade, which is why we are delighted to see the back of these measures from today.
“It is hugely positive to see how comfortable the public now feel about returning to their local, and office workers can do their bit by visiting their old pre-pandemic haunts.
“We are grateful for the support the sector has received. However, there is much more to be done to secure the long-term survival of our much-loved pubs and breweries.”
