The BBPA has called on the government to develop a long-term strategy to support UK pubs and hospitality jobs, after figures revealed that two pubs closed per day during the first three months of the year, prior to the introduction of temporary business rates relief last month.
The British Beer and Pub Association has urged ministers to work in partnership with the pub industry to develop a long-term plan for the sector, after figures revealed that two pubs closed per day in the period leading up to the introduction of temporary rates relief.
More than 160 pubs closed during the first three months of the year, equating to approximately 2,400 job losses, underlining why the industry-specific business rates relief that came into effect in April was “so necessary.”
“The scale of these closures is avoidable because pubs are doing a brisk trade, but their profits are wiped out by a disproportionate tax burden and huge costs,” said BBPA CEO Emma McClarkin. “For too many, the sheer weight of taxes and regulatory costs have forced them to shut up shop, which will only hurt communities, workers, and the wider economy.”
“This underscores why Government’s business rates relief was so necessary, and the support such a welcome relief. We want to work with Government to establish a permanent long-term plan that will deliver permanently lower bills, a fairer system and ultimately protect this treasured sector. This means more people in jobs, precious community spaces protected, vibrant high streets, and more investment and growth.”
The regions that suffered the most from net pub closures in England were London and the South East, with 0.5 percent closures, followed by East of England with 0.4 percent, while Scotland lost 41 pubs, equating to 1 percent.
The total figures represent a 26 percent increase on the number of pubs closing during the same period in 2025, and the continued impact of heavy new costs and a disproportionate tax burden could jeopardise the viability of a sector that generates upwards of £34bn for the economy annually.
The BBPA said that the impact of all the Budget measures announced in November were an “eye-watering” £322m of business costs for pubs and brewers, meaning “incredibly tough decisions for many and a major brake on investment and growth.”
The association added that pub closures will have a further impact on those who are part of the supply chain, including farmers, brewers and other industries forming part of the sector’s wider eco-system.
Closing down
Emma McClarkin said… “The scale of these closures is avoidable because pubs are doing a brisk trade, but their profits are wiped out by a disproportionate tax burden and huge costs…
Originally published on Coinslot on May 11, 2026. Republished with permission.