Further opportunities lie ahead for the pub trade, says Carlsberg UK boss
Benet Slay, who is a BBPA board member, said the ending of the beer duty escalator and the cut in beer duty had boosted industry confidence. The event was held in the Houses of Parliament yesterday (December 11).
He also highlighted other major milestones for the industry, such as Pubs are GREAT and the Let There Be Beer campaigns, thanked MPs for their support, and urged the Government to repeat the beer duty freeze in 2014.
In his speech Slay said: "Despite the very tough ongoing market conditions and declining volumes, as an industry we still do have much to celebrate. And much to thank you for, you our Parliamentary champions for beer and pubs."
Praise
He praised the Chancellor for announcing the first cut in beer duty in this country since 1959. A Beer Champions Event is being held at the House on January 22 to recognise the part MPs played in supporting the industry. Community Pubs Minister Brandon Lewis MP was also praised for his "fantastic support" for his work.
Slay added: "It feels like 2013 has been the year we have turned a really important corner. Last week’s Autumn Statement placing pubs at the heart of the Government’s new approach to business rates is further encouraging evidence of this.
"But our work is not done, and the challenging market conditions remain. It is vital we persuade you to keep to the course we have set out on in 2013. There are a number of ways, you won’t be surprised to hear, where we would welcome your continued support."
Case for further beer duty freeze
Slay said there is a "compelling" case for a further freeze in beer duty in the 2014 Budget and would also like the continued support for a business rates system that recognises the value of pubs in communities and on the high street.
He welcomes a "sensible" alcohol strategy that endorses the partnership approach in the Public Health Responsibility Deal and one that promotes local voluntary partnerships – like Best Bar None, Pubwatch, Purple Flag schemes, Street Pastors and Business Improvement Districts.
