Overview

• Official figures show 209 pubs were demolished or converted in England and Wales between January and June, reducing the total to 38,780
• Cumulative losses since the start of 2020 have reached 2,283 pubs as the sector continues a post-pandemic contraction in hospitality capacity
• April’s measures raised the national living wage by 6.7%, increased employer National Insurance contributions to 15% and slashed business-rates relief for pubs from 60% to 25%
• Ryan tax specialists estimate the business-rates relief cut added around £215 million to sector tax bills and nearly doubled the average small pub’s rates payment
• Industry organisations are urging the Chancellor to introduce targeted support at the autumn Budget to stem further closures