The British Beer and Pub Association has urged the Government to introduce a 30 percent sector-specific business rates relief in order to protect thousands of pubs and 15,000 jobs, after the Budget “left publicans petrified.”
Following an emergency summit of pub chiefs, the BBPA has called on the Government to introduce a 30 percent pub-specific business rates relief to prevent widespread closures and protect approximately 15,000 jobs.
The association warned that 5,000 pubs will face a business rates bill for the first time next year, pushing many “to the brink,” with the average community pub hit by a 30 percent increase in Rateable Value.
“This Budget left publicans petrified and many fearing there is no way they can survive these sky-high bill increases or keep their home,” said BBPA CEO Emma McClarkin. “The situation is so grave that it requires immediate action as the very existence of thousands of pubs is at stake.”
“Without urgent intervention, communities will lose their pubs at an alarming rate and take with them livelihoods and jobs. A 30 percent pub-specific relief is the simplest, fairest and fastest way to protect Britain’s locals and we want to work with Government so we can ensure the sector survives.”
With the loss of the “vital” 40 percent business rates relief, the revaluation means a 63 percent rise in bills, roughly £6,000 more each year, with the BBPA noting that the Government’s plan to soften the new rates with transitional relief “will not counter the devastating impact.”
“The sector’s total bill will mean a further £150m by 2028/29 even after transitional support, an increase of 32 percent.”
“The minor 5p tweak to multipliers does nothing to fix the long-standing imbalance: pubs continue to massively overpay relative to their turnover.”
Pubs need relief from rates
Emma McClarkin said… “The situation is so grave that it requires immediate action as the very existence of thousands of pubs is at stake.Without urgent intervention, communities will lose their pubs at an alarming rate and take with them livelihoods and jobs…
Originally published on Coinslot on December 22, 2025. Republished with permission.