UK’s largest pub retailer and brewer, based in Bury St Edmunds; owned pubs, restaurants, hotels
McFly is crafting a new album inspired by Oasis and pub-energy, aiming to merge crowd-friendly anthems with arena-ready sound. The band reflects on past setbacks, a later restart with Phoebe Bridgers’ Saddest Factory, and a push to balance four members’ ambitions.
Global alcohol consumption is waning as health concerns and tighter budgets drive down servings across beer, wine and spirits. IWSR shows a 2% annual drop in servings from 2019-2025, with the trend echoing a long-term decline in per-capita consumption. Producers are cutting costs and launching lower-alcohol offerings to adapt.
The government has introduced a temporary VAT cut on children’s meals, cinema and attraction tickets to ease cost of living during the summer holidays. The measure, announced by the Chancellor, is designed to help families, with firms free to pass on the saving. The scheme runs until September 1 and covers parks, zoos, cinemas and restaurants.
The hospitality sector has seen worsening conditions with nearly a quarter of venues losing money, prompting calls for a 10% VAT rate to boost margins, hiring, and investment. Campaigns gain momentum as Ireland lowers its rate and prominent chefs back the move, while critics warn of hefty revenue losses.
Andy Burnham has reiterated that there is room for movement on tax within Labour’s 2024 manifesto while outlining possible changes to business rates to support high streets and pubs. He has not promised revenue-raising measures on income tax, VAT or National Insurance but is considering reforms to business rates and targeted reliefs as part of his broader policy package.