What's happened
As England faces Spain in the Euro 2024 final, pubs across the UK will extend their hours to 1am, allowing fans to celebrate or commiserate. This event is expected to generate an estimated £48 million in additional revenue for the hospitality sector, with 10 million extra pints anticipated to be served.
What's behind the headline?
Economic Impact
- Revenue Surge: The British Beer and Pub Association estimates an additional £48 million in sales from the final.
- Increased Sales: UKHospitality predicts a total sector boost of £800 million during the tournament.
Hospitality Sector Recovery
- Post-Pandemic Boost: The hospitality industry, still recovering from COVID-19, sees this event as crucial for financial recovery.
- Job Creation: Increased demand may lead to temporary job boosts in pubs and bars.
Cultural Significance
- National Unity: The match serves as a rallying point for fans, fostering a sense of community.
- Public Sentiment: Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the importance of coming together to support the team, reflecting national pride.
What the papers say
According to The Independent, pubs will remain open until 1am for the Euro 2024 final, with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stating, "It’s right that we can all come together tomorrow to enjoy the match and hopefully celebrate an England victory." The Guardian highlights the hospitality sector's need for this boost, noting that the tournament could generate between £700 million and £800 million in sales. Emma McClarkin from the British Beer and Pub Association remarked, "Fans have shown us resoundingly this tournament that there is no better place to watch our teams than the great British pub." Meanwhile, The Mirror emphasizes the significance of the extended hours, allowing fans to celebrate or drown their sorrows, reinforcing the event's cultural importance.
How we got here
England's journey to the Euro 2024 final has reignited interest in football, following their previous loss in the Euro 2020 final. The government has relaxed licensing laws to accommodate the expected surge in pub attendance during this significant match.
Go deeper
- What are the expected sales figures for pubs?
- How has the hospitality sector been affected by the tournament?
- What measures are pubs taking to prepare for the final?
Common question
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