Christmas bookings see 20% decline

In a survey of almost 5,000 pubs, conducted by the BBPA, bookings for the festive season had seen a 20% decline compared to usual as pubs continue to struggle with rising business costs.

However, many of those surveyed were hopeful the FIFA 2022 World Cup would provide a boost to trade despite its winter timing, with BBPA chief executive Emma McClarkin urging people to "get out and support their local".

Heart of hosting 

She said: “As with so many sporting events, pubs will be at the heart of hosting screenings in communities across the country."

The BBPA data also showed two thirds of 30,000 pubs surveyed had already planned to host screenings of some kind in the hope the tournament would deliver an extra 10% in bookings, which during summer would add a £155m boost to the industry.

Additionally, recent data from CGA revealed 20% of consumers had planned to visit their usual venues specifically to watch the tournament while 12% of the 5,000 people surveyed said they would actively seek different on-trade establishments to watch the event.

McClarkin added she hoped consumers would help "boost" the industry by cheering on their favourite team with a "pint in hand".

Further cutbacks 

However, research from Barclaycard​ earlier this month revealed 42% of consumers had planned to curb spending in the on-trade this year with a further 48% having planned to cut down on festive activities and gifts.

Barclaycard director Esme Harwood said: “Consumers continue to swap big nights out for cosy evenings in as they reduce their discretionary spending.

“With the festive season around the corner, we’re likely to see further cutbacks, as Brit’s rein in their Christmas spending."