BrewDog Bars boss calls on government to 'get a grip' on rail strikes

The chief executive of BrewDog Bars has called on the government to “get a grip” on the ongoing rail strikes after sales at some of the group’s sites fell by over 70% this week.

James Brown wrote on LinkedIn that while BrewDog could "manage the pain" industrial action was having a “devastating” impact on independent hospitality businesses.

ASLEF union members took strike action on Wednesday 31 May and will also walk out on Saturday 3 June, while RMT members are set to strike on Friday 2 June.

Brown posted an image showing sales at BrewDog’s London Clerkenwell bar were down 70% compared to last week, while London Waterloo was down 57%, Liverpool down 36%, and Dundee down 29%.

He wrote: “Train Strikes! They hurt, and they disproportionally impact hospitality businesses!

“BrewDog are fortunate that we have the scale to be able manage the pain over time and we can take a longer view on sales and profitability.

“Small independent pubs and restauranteurs who have to survive day to day are being starved of oxygen and are closing their doors at the fastest rate ever. This is terrible for the communities they serve and the millions they employ.

“UK Government need to get a grip of the situation and get to a resolution. The economic impact is huge and the devastating effect on independent hospitality businesses is too much.”

UKHospitality estimated the ongoing dispute between unions and train companies could cost the hospitality sector up to £132m this week, which is also half-term.

The strikes will also impact thousands of fans expected to travel to Wembley Stadium for the FA Cup final on 3 June.