BBPA calls for urgent Government action as nearly 300 pubs close down in 2024

Nearly 300 pubs closed across England and Wales in 2024 – an equivalent of six a week – according to latest figures from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).  

The industry body, which represents more than 20,000 pubs, reported there were 289 closures in the past year, which equated to more than 4,500 job losses alone.   

The BBPA said that the enormous scale of closures can be halted if Government sticks to its commitment to business rates reform, which must be swiftly and meaningfully introduced.  

Overhauling business rates for pubs and breweries, which are amongst the most heavily taxed business sectors in the UK, coupled with phasing in new employment costs, would slow down unnecessary closures the BBPA said. 

With the beer and pub sector pouring more than £34bn into the economy in one year alone and supporting more than a million jobs, the BBPA said the Government must remain committed to supporting the sector. 

Emma McClarkin, CEO of the BBPA, said: “The scale of these closures is completely avoidable because pubs are doing a brisk trade.

“Consumer demand is there, however, profits are being wiped out with sky high bills and pubs are facing yet more rates and costs come April.  

“We’re right behind Labour’s mission to supercharge growth and can deliver this economic boost across the UK, but only if it is easier for pubs to keep their doors open.