ALMR announces 12th annual benchmarking survey

The ALMR Christie & Co report will examine the current operating costs of pubs, bars, nightclubs and restaurants, as well as collate information on business confidence following the EU referendum to identify any changes in the sector’s outlook as the UK prepares to leave the EU.

ALMR chief executive Kate Nicholls described the report as a “very valuable resource for the sector” and one of the ALMR’s most “reliable and effective weapons when it comes to dealing with authorities”.

In the past, the benchmarking reports have been used to influence policy on issues such as service charges, the national living wage, business rates reform, PPL proposals and changes to gaming machine stakes and prizes, the ALMR said.

Accurate breakdown

“The report provides a clear and accurate breakdown of the costs of doing business in the eating- and drinking-out sector,” continued Nicholls.

“This data is vital if we want to communicate our message to the Government and secure support that gives businesses an opportunity to invest and grow.”

Christie & Co pubs & restaurants managing director Neil Morgan added: “We are delighted to continue to support the ALMR Christie & Co benchmarking report for a fourth year. Last year’s report reflected the continuing evolution of the UK consumer landscape while highlighting the potential political and economic pressures which are threatening some operators.

"As the sector faces various headwinds we urge all ALMR members, as well as non-members, to participate in the survey to give a comprehensive view of the market which can be used to understand and combat these operational pressures.”