A survey commissioned by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has found a 10% jump in the number of people who say the average price of a pint is unaffordable.
In 2019, 42% of respondents to a YouGov survey for CAMRA said the cost of a pint at the bar was unaffordable. But that figure jumped to 52% when the survey was repeated last week.
It comes as the nation’s pubs are facing rising prices, skyrocketing energy bills, and a dip in consumer spending power, prompting CAMRA to issue another plea to government for action to save the UK’s pubs.
CAMRA would like to see:
- The new, lower rate of tax for draught beer applying to containers of 20 litres and above, so that all pubs and small brewers can benefit
- An energy price cap for hospitality businesses
- A cut in VAT on food and drink served in pubs, clubs, and restaurants
- Reform of the Pubs Code for England and Wales, to bring more tenancies under the protections of the code and give more tenants the right to buy beer on the open market at a competitive price
CAMRA says the new prime minister should use the forthcoming Budget to prioritise introduction of the new system of alcohol taxatio, specifically the preferential rate of duty on draught beer and cider served in pubs. This could see a lower rate of tax on drinks served in licensed premises, helping them to compete with supermarkets.
CAMRA chair, Nik Antona, said: “The news that half of people think the average price of a pint is unaffordable is a cause for concern for the future of the Great British pub.
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“Businesses that have survived the pandemic are now being threatened again by inflation and spiraling energy costs, just as consumers are dealing with the cost of living crisis and reining in their spending.
“As well as encouraging everyone to continue to support pubs, social clubs, and taprooms, CAMRA is calling on governments across the UK to urgently take action to safeguard the future of the UK’s beloved locals.”
