The pub sector is calling on the new government for support

Yesterday (Wednesday, May 22), Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the date when the nation will go to the polls.

In response, UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls called on the future government to provide support to the sector.

She said: “Hospitality businesses are at the heart of every constituency in the country. Serving the UK, the sector creates places where people want to live, work and invest.

“We need to see all political parties recognize this and work hard on behalf of our members over this period to ensure that manifestos from across the political spectrum reflect the strategic importance of our sector.

“We need to see evidence of measures that can unlock the potential of our sector to achieve even more. These include promises to take action to reduce the tax burden on our industry, initiatives to give us greater access to workers, and other measures that will help us create more jobs and continue to upskill our workforce.”

British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive Emma McClarkin also highlighted the importance of the sector.

She said: “Pubs and breweries are the heart of our communities. They bring friends and strangers together and, in many ways, help create the glue needed for social cohesion.

“With a supportive fiscal and regulatory framework, which includes easing the tax burden currently borne by the beer and pub sector through proportionate and fair business rates and tariffs, pubs can help to revitalize local high streets and the economy.

“The beer and pub industry has huge instinctive support – nine out of 10 people regularly drink a refreshing beer in their premises.”

Nicholls echoed, calling on the new government to support the industry in the future.

“The sector has faced significant challenges over the last few years and we need the next government to introduce policies that ensure that breweries and pubs not only survive, but thrive and can achieve their full potential and maximize their economic, social and community benefits value to the community,” McClarkin added.

Being at the heart of the community was also emphasized by the CEO of the British Institute of Innkeeping, Steve Alton.

The key to unlocking growth

Why are UK elections always held on Thursday?

Since 1931, general elections have been held on a Thursday, and while there is no official reason, the pub sector is said to be partly behind the decision.

There are rumors that some felt that Fridays were inappropriate because it is often payday and Sundays are excluded due to the tradition of religious activities.

Therefore, a midweek day may mean that voters will be away from the influence of the pub and church.

“In our #MyPub campaign, MPs from across the political spectrum supported and promoted local pubs, raising awareness of the vital role they play in every city and high street across the UK,” he said.

“The flexibility, resilience and adaptability of pubs has always meant our sector has been key to unlocking economic growth, providing vital local employment and flexible career opportunities, but pubs do so much more. They support vulnerable members of their communities, provide safe and welcoming spaces for all, and facilitate much-needed human connection like no other company.

“We will continue to ensure that ministers and officials are fully aware of the investment and support needed for pubs in our countries, regardless of the election results this summer.”

The announcement was welcomed by the head of the Night-Time Industries Association, Michael Kill, who said it was a “pivotal moment” for the nation.

He added: “We offer an opportunity to end the prolonged period of uncertainty and confusion that has plagued our country for the past four years.

“As CEO of NTIA, I recognize the importance of stability and effective governance in addressing the challenges facing our sectors. “Recent years have been marked by uncertainty and instability, which has impacted businesses and communities across the country.”

He said it is imperative that the election season is conducted with a sense of responsibility and purpose because the election outcome will determine the direction the nation will take in the years to come

“We call on all stakeholders to engage in a constructive and informed dialogue, focusing on the long-term interests of our country and its citizens,” Kill added.

“Our sector has been particularly hard hit by the challenges of recent years, from the impact of the pandemic to regulatory uncertainty. It is critical that the elected government works on a comprehensive and inclusive long-term plan that addresses these challenges and supports the recovery and development of our industry.”

“We call on all political parties to prioritize the needs of the night-time economy in their electoral manifestos and engage in policies that support its recovery and sustainable development. This includes measures to ensure the safety and security of our facilities, support for cultural initiatives and investment in the skills and training of our people.”

“As Election Day approaches, we remain committed to working with policymakers, industry stakeholders and our communities to build a vibrant and resilient night-time economy that contributes to the social, cultural and economic fabric of our nation.”

“It is also important to work together to overcome the challenges of the present and build a better future for all.”

Woodforde’s brewery boss Joe Parks was hoping for change after many years working in the same government.

Empty promises

He added: “But I think we are all fed up with empty promises – we need action, not just words.

“The new government will need to do more to support the hospitality sector as we have been losing pubs and breweries across the UK every week for years.

“Pubs are the lifeblood of the country and whoever takes the reins must once again defend the great British pub.

“I am extremely disappointed with the current government and the lack of support it has given the sector, and I pray that its successors recognize the seriousness of the situation.

“Fortunately, we still have a good position in the market and have plans to expand, but it was sad to see so many other breweries close due to lack of support.”

The Wine & Spirits Trade Association (WSTA) is determined that the UK should remain at the center of the global wine and spirits trade, according to chief executive Miles Beale.

The organization is committed to continuing to ensure that the sector’s voice is clearly heard at home and abroad.

Beale added: “We look forward to working with the next government to deliver economic growth, better environmental performance and greater social responsibility.

“No matter what the future holds, the last five years have taught us to be prepared for the unexpected. WSTA will continue to effectively represent its members and the broader wine and spirits industry and be a strong and reliable partner to governments and like-minded organizations.

He called for the economic importance of the UK’s wine and spirits sector to be recognized and appreciated by the next government and outlined the organization’s expectations from whichever party takes power.

Beale said: “WSTA will work closely with any government that wants to support economic growth and job creation. And if the sector’s contribution is recognized and valued, it should follow that its activities should be appropriately and proportionately taxed and regulated.

“The elections provide an opportunity to reset the way we engage with the new government. WSTA and the companies we represent want to cooperate more closely with a new government – regardless of its political background – that has clear goals and a new mandate.

“In particular, we want a change in the way government and business cooperate. If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that government-industry collaboration is patchy and inconsistent. Some government departments are better at this than others, and some seem to actively disregard the views of business – even when they are essential to making change happen.”

Beale said WSTA hopes and looks forward to working closely with ministers, advisers and officials on the new government’s plans to achieve economic growth, improved environmental performance and greater social responsibility.