Jubilee weekend could provide £105m boost for sector

19-May-2022 - Last updated on 19-May-2022 at 08:16 GMT

Jubilee bank holiday weekend: celebrations could see 90m pints sold according to BBPA (Credit: Getty/ The Good Brigade)

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The upcoming Platinum Jubilee bank holiday weekend could result in an estimated 90m pints sold, providing a £105m boost for hospitality businesses, according to the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA).

With opening hours extended until 1am across the extra-long weekend from 2 – 6 June, the record bank holiday sales hoped for could see £29m paid into the economy in duty and VAT.

BBPA chief executive Emma McClarkin said: “The Platinum Jubilee weekend is set to be a joyous occasion for the whole country, and pubs are looking forward to leading celebrations in their communities across the country.

“Pubs have always been a place for people to come together and it’s at special times like this that really shines through.

Show support

“Whether it’s toasting a special brew for Her Majesty the Queen or joining a Jubilee bbq at your local, we hope people will celebrate at the pub and show their support for two great British institutions.”

This comes as the BBPA recently joined other trade organisations and the Together Coalition to call for the extended bank holiday to be made a permanent fixture, however, this idea was met with mixed reactions from licensees across the sector.

In addition to extended opening hours, several other initiatives are expected to boost sales and get people to their local to celebrate Her Majesty’s 70-year reign, such as celebratory serves created to mark the occasion or hosting jubilee lunches and community street parties.

Several brewers from across the country are expected to take part in brewing a special ‘Thank Brew’ to raise money for good causes.

Bringing communities together

An easy drinking 3.5% Pale Ale, also available in a low alcohol version, ‘Thank Brew’ will be served at a selection of different pubs across the UK.

Licensee of the White Swan in Otley, West Yorkshire, Jason Smith, who will be hosting a special Jubilee bbq said: “We are really looking forward to the Jubilee celebrations bringing our community together and are proud our pub will be at the heart of that.

“We took a knock over the past two years, and Christmas restrictions were a real blow to our business, but this will be an opportunity to bounce back, so we’re keeping fingers crossed for nice weather as well to lift spirits and celebrations even more.”