Third of Brits going to pub just once a month as bosses slash opening times

06 May 2024 , 18:39

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Rosie and John Nagaty have seen a big decline in customers at their pub

A third of punters are now visiting the pub just once a month, as the cost of living crisis continues to hit the struggling drinks industry.

Figures show 73% of people go out less often than in 2022, with 47% of these scaling back on popping to boozers. The average spend on a visit is £16 to £25, figures compiled for The Mirror by consumer insights firm Vypr found. Landlady Rosie Nagaty told how she, like many pub bosses, have had to reduce their opening hours due to high costs.

The 35-year-old, who runs the Old George Inn in Sykehouse, South Yorks, with husband John, said: “We have been in the trade for only three years, but in that time we have seen a big decline in regulars coming in daily or a few times per week. Many come for special occasions only, for example once every few months as they are eating and drinking at home more to save money.”

The Old George Inn in Sykehouse, South Yorks

Rosie, who previously revealed she has called last orders as early as 8.30pm due to a lack of customers, also revealed she is selling more cheaper soft drinks due to soaring beer prices. She charges £4.50 to £6 for a pint while lime and soda costs £2.30. Some city centre pubs charge almost £9 for a lager, far higher than the national average of £4.80.

Most publicans do not want to pass costs on to the consumer, but business rate hikes, higher energy costs and rising prices from suppliers often leave them with little choice. The British Beer and Pub Association’s chief executive Emma McClarkin said: “The average price for a pint is £4.80 with £1.52 going straight to the Government in tax, with pubs only able to make 12p in profit.”

Widow brings pillow with late husband's face on it to pub every New Year's Eve

Nik Antona, of the Campaign for Real Ale, added: “The price of beer and cider is discouraging customers who are already being cautious with their cash thanks to the cost of living crisis. Pubs and breweries are under threat of closure.” BBPA figures showed that last year more than 500 pubs shut down, and the group fears another 750 could close by July. The Campaign for Pubs group’s Greg Mulholland said the Tories were not doing enough to protect businesses.

He added: “Government support is wholly inadequate and often ­mistargeted, benefiting the global brewers and giant pubcos, not ­struggling pubs and publicans.” A government spokesman said: “We recently extended ­measures to support ­hospitality, including a 75% discount on business rates and freezing alcohol duty until February 2025.”

Natasha Wynarczyk