Pubs bounce back from Covid low as jobs rise - but 4,000 have disappeared

More than 4000 pubs shut their doors during the pandemic, and while staffing levels have risen since then, the industry body says urgent protections are needed to support the industry

The number of people employed in the beer and pub industry has soared by more than 100,000 since before Covid.

Trade body the British Beer and Pub Association's research has said the sector is now supporting supporting 1,040,000 jobs. But with more than 4,000 boozers shutting their doors for good between now and 2019, it is calling on the Government to bring in protections in the upcoming Budget.

The BBPA said pubs urgently need help in the Budget to keep people in work. It is calling on the Government to use the upcoming Budget to cut beer duty, reform business rates, and pledge to keep the 75% business rates relief so that pubs and brewers can keep people in work and support more jobs.

A 5% cut in beer duty in the upcoming Budget would result in up to 12,000 additional jobs, mainly in pubs. This is due to the dynamic effects of increased prices at the bar reducing demand from consumers, who are sensitive to costs rising.

A decreased demand for drinks in pubs leads to closures and job losses so keeping the price of a pint affordable will allow the sector to thrive and employ even more people, the BBPA said. Emma McClarkin, CEO of the BBPA, said: “Our brewers and pubs are helping people around the country earn money, gain skills and experience, and support both the local and national economy.“

“But for the job market to flourish – and for us to keep supporting those jobs - it’s vital our sector is given the support it needs to continue. We are urging the Government protect the Great British brewing and pub sector - the beating heart of our communities - to ensure it can remain a driving force for growth, jobs, investment and social value whilst keeping the price of a pint affordable for all.”