British pubs call for much-needed support in upcoming budget

Survey shows that three out of four pubs were unprofitable in 2023 due to exceptional costs and they are calling for a reduction in VAT for all pub sales

The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) has written to the Chancellor calling for vital investment in pubs at the budget on the 6 March.

A survey conducted in the last few days across its 13,000 UK members, the majority independently operating single pubs, has highlighted the challenges they face by revealing that 2023 revenues were flat or down for 62% of pubs.

Pubs were dealt with exceptional price hikes in energy, staffing and food & drinks supplies, which impacted hugely on profits resulting in three out of four pubs operating unprofitably in 2023.

Steve Alton, CEO of the British Institute of Innkeeping said: “Our members’ pubs continue to face a cost of business crisis, driven by exceptional cost increases in energy, staffing, food and drink supply.  These short-term pressures are undermining long-term, viable businesses in every community, stifling investment and growth, with many now at risk of failure. Pubs are essential businesses at the heart of every community, providing accessible spaces for all.

“The Chancellor has recognised the vital role of pubs in our communities and we now ask him to invest in pubs to secure their viable future for generations to come. This investment can be delivered via fair taxation through a reduction in VAT for all pub sales, which will deliver a meaningful investment that will have immediate impact, allowing pubs to plan, invest and deliver future growth, benefiting the economy and communities across the UK.”