Responding to the announcement of successful bids for the community ownership of pubs from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Emma McClarkin Chief Executive of the British Beer & Pub Association said:
“Pubs truly are the heart of our communities, and it is brilliant to see so many receiving support through the Government’s Community Ownership Fund so they can continue to thrive.
“The past two years have been devastating for our sector, with many businesses still struggling as we emerge from the pandemic due to rising overheads and concerned consumers. Whilst funding such as this which will help some pubs in the short term is welcome, longer-term support for our sector is needed to ensure pubs across the country aren’t forced to close their doors and that we don’t lose our locals forever.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
About the British Beer & Pub Association
The BBPA represents companies in the UK which between them brew over 90% of the beer sold in the UK and own 20,000 pubs. Our members include international companies, family brewers, managed locals, and the nation’s largest tenanted pub estates.
About Long Live the Local
Long Live the Local is calling on the Government to invest in pubs and breweries through the reform of the unfair tax burden – specifically lower VAT & Business Rates for pubs and lower Beer Duty.
Research by Oxford Economics
A recent study by Oxford Economics found that 800 pubs closed their doors for good during the pandemic.
Press release from BBPA
For more information or to arrange an interview with Emma contact Jessie Powell on jpowell@beerandpub.com / 07772245620