What's happened
In the first half of 2024, 305 pubs closed in England and Wales, with experts warning of further closures due to rising taxes and the end of business rates relief. The hospitality sector is urging government action to prevent more closures as costs continue to escalate.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, '305 pubs were forced to shut their doors permanently in the first six months of the year,' highlighting the ongoing crisis in the hospitality sector. Metro adds that 'the overall number of pubs... fell to 39,096 at the end of June,' indicating a significant decline. Meanwhile, the Scotsman notes that 'the thought of owning... your own pub is still an attractive prospect for many people,' suggesting a persistent interest in the industry despite challenges. The analysis from Altus Group emphasizes the need for government intervention, with Alex Probyn stating, 'the last thing pubs need is an average business rates hike.'
How we got here
The pub industry has struggled since the COVID-19 pandemic, facing prolonged closures and rising operational costs due to inflation. Business rates relief, which provided significant support, is set to end in March 2025, exacerbating financial pressures.
Common question
-
Which Wetherspoons Pubs Are Closing by the End of 2024?
As the UK pub industry faces significant challenges, many are wondering about the future of popular chains like Wetherspoons. With rising costs and changing consumer habits, several Wetherspoons pubs are set to close by the end of 2024. This page explores the closures, their causes, and what it means for local communities and patrons.
More on these topics
-
Wales is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It is bordered by the Irish Sea to the north and west, England to the east, the Bristol Channel to the south, and the Celtic Sea to the south-west. As of 2021, it had a population of 3.2 million.
-
England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Wales to its west and Scotland to its north. The Irish Sea lies northwest of England and the Celtic Sea to the southwest. England is separated from continental Europe by