Overview

• The average price of a pint in the UK is projected to rise from £4.80 to £5.01 in April, marking the first time it surpasses £5.
• Cost increases stem from October 2024 budget policies, including higher minimum wages, increased national insurance rates, and reduced business rates relief.
• The Pub Association estimates the changes will add £650 million in costs to the beer and pub sector.
• Pubs are passing these costs onto consumers to maintain slim profit margins, with some brewers, such as Shepherd Neame, already announcing price hikes.
• Industry leaders are urging the government to reduce business costs to keep pubs viable and preserve their community value.