Pub Numbers Dip as 386 Cheers Fade Away in 2022
A fresh analysis from Altus Group, based on official government stats, reveals a sharp drop in England and Wales’ pub scene. The total count slipped to 39,787 in December 2022, down from 40,173 the year before – that’s 386 fewer watering holes.
Pubs Close But Resilience Shines Through
Despite this decline, the number of permanent pub closures actually fell by 13.1% compared to 2021. This suggests a tougher, yet more resilient year for UK pub fans amid soaring energy bills and rising food costs. Still, 50 pubs shut up shop every week last year, struggling with weak consumer demand.
Energy Crisis Hits Boozers Hard
The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) has flagged up grim warnings. Many venues have slashed opening hours or trimmed menus just to stay afloat. They fear without more government help, especially on energy bills, more pubs could go under.
Communities Losing Their Pubs
Altus Group’s Ben Nelson highlights a worrying trend:
“Many publicans I speak to are worried this could be their last Christmas and desperately need certainty about future support. High operating costs and thin margins make pub sites attractive for other uses like housing or offices. Continued support is critical to protect pubs, which play a vital role at the heart of their local communities.”
Over the past five years, 2,663 pubs have disappeared from UK towns and villages, either demolished or converted into new developments. The hospitality industry did get some relief from the Government’s energy bills relief scheme, but that aid ends in March 2023. The sector waits nervously for the next government plan.
