Almost 300 pubs permanently lost in 2021

Almost 300 pubs were demolished or converted for another use in 2021, according to the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

In response to figures showing that 290 pubs, equivalent to more than five a week, permanently ceased operations last year, CAMRA has called for a VAT cut, changes to the business rates system and the introduction of an online sales tax.

More than 500 pubs were also classed as ‘long term closures’ in 2021, meaning the building is still classed as a pub but is without tenants to run it.

In better news, there was also an increase in the number of new pubs being opened, with just over seven welcoming their first guests every week in the second half of the year.

CAMRA chairman Nik Antona said: “These figures show that whilst there is some encouraging news about new pubs opening in 2021, there is still a big problem with pub businesses not reopening after the pandemic.

“With the cost of living crisis affecting consumers, and the cost of business crisis facing our pubs, brewers and cider makers, we are really concerned that this positive news from our 2021 figures will turn into a nightmare report for 2022.

“Pubs are not only vital employers, but they are key to community life up and down the country – bringing people together and tackling loneliness and social isolation. Government across the UK must do more to make sure pub businesses can survive the cost of business crisis, and that consumers can still support their local pubs at a time when household budgets are being squeezed.”

CAMRA has additionally called for the Statutory Pubs Code Review to bring more tied tenants under its scope; the introduction of a new draught duty rate for beer and cider containers of 20 litres or more, as well as the retention of duty exemption for small-scale cider producers.

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