289 Pubs Close Across England, Wales Amid Economic Strain

The British pub industry is in crisis, with approximately six pubs closing every week in 2024, resulting in around 4,500 job losses, according to the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA). The trade body reports that 289 pubs permanently shut their doors last year, with London experiencing the highest closures at 34. Factors contributing to this crisis include rising interest rates, high energy costs, and a cost of living squeeze, which have eroded profits despite robust consumer demand. As additional costs from the October Budget, including higher National Insurance contributions and minimum wage hikes, come into effect in April, the situation is expected to worsen, potentially adding £650 million in costs for the sector. The BBPA has called for urgent government reforms to the business rates system to alleviate financial pressures on pubs. Chief executive Emma McClarkin emphasized that many closures are