A couple of years ago we wrote in our NE Leisure supplement about the rise of Micropubs in the area (‘Let’s Say Cheers To The Micropubs’).  So, it was with some sadness when we heard recently of Mark Hall’s decision to close The Split Chimp (Newcastle’s first Micropub), a lovely, comfy little watering hole, just around the corner from our Central Square South offices, and often the venue for a swift one after work.

Now putting rent to one side, as that ultimately is a function of the market, supply/demand etc., clearly some of the problems experienced by The Split Chimp are common across the industry. Excessive Business Rates is a common complaint from the industry, and that doesn’t look like it is going to get any easier, with rates multipliers likely to rise next year.   The business rates tax burden could increase by up to £1.95bn.  Of course, there are steps occupiers can take to minimise the liability (‘How Business Rates Can Save The Pub’ page 8).  The Government can help as well, by freezing the multiplier or extending the current reliefs package, or maybe a reduction in VAT for pubs?

The hospitality industry is still trying to recover from the devastation caused by Covid-19 and the associated lockdowns, but it is a difficult and slow fight for many, with recent ONS data showing that across England and Wales, 2 pubs a day are closing their doors permanently.

But unfortunately for an industry, that ultimately is reliant upon their customers having spare cash to spend, the continuing inflationary pressures and cost of living crisis is a double whammy, as operational costs continue to rise and there are fewer punters with disposable income, out and enjoying a night on the town.

I remain convinced that the Micro Publicans are doing a great job bringing great beer to the masses and could well become the ‘new locals’, but we as guests and punters need to do our bit to help.  Whilst I can understand the health benefits being promoted by events such as ‘Dry January’ and ‘Stoptober’, unfortunately they aren’t doing anything to help this already pressurised industry.  Whilst the large Pubco’s are to an extent slightly insulated from some of these pressures, your local independent venues are not and indeed are at a far greater risk!

So, if you can, pop into your (independent) local and have a pint, or if you are doing your bit for charity/your own health have a soft drink (as surprise surprise, Pubs sell them too), or maybe have Sunday lunch or a bite to eat if that’s an option.

The Pub has long been a cornerstone of British life, but if we continue to lose venues at the rate we have been, then this could soon, sadly, be a thing of the past!  So, if you can, get out there and help save our pubs.