The report, titled The Economic Value of After-Work Occasions, found that every £10 spent on post-work drinks or meals generates an additional £13.40 for the wider economy, supporting around 300,000 full-time jobs nationwide.
‘Missing out’
Despite the economic benefit, the study revealed 46% of hybrid workers say they are missing out on after-work catch-ups with colleagues.
72% agreed the best way to build relationships at work is outside the office, while 78% said post-work socialising helps them make new contacts.
A third (32%) said they have their most honest conversations at the pub, and 74% of Gen Z respondents claimed their best ideas come during pub socials rather than at work.
To celebrate the social and economic value of the pub, Heineken has renamed several venues across the UK as “The Office”, encouraging people to reconnect with colleagues over a pint. More than 1,000 pubs nationwide are taking part in a free pint promotion throughout October, redeemable Monday to Friday from 4:59pm.
Participating pubs include:
- Two Bridges, Bermondsey, London
- Devonshire Arms, Duke Street, London
- The Atlas Bar, Deansgate, Manchester
- The Cross Keys, Earle Street, Liverpool
- Admiral Woods, Waterloo Street, Glasgow
Heineken’s global head, Nabil Nasser, said: “The return-to-office chat continues to stir up debate. After years of video calls and virtual cheers it’s safe to say that while we might not miss the office, we’ve certainly missed those real, in-person laughs with our colleagues.
“At Heineken, we’ve always believed the best moments happen when people get together, so this month we’re raising our pints to ‘circling back’ to our colleagues – at the pub.”
As a further sign of confidence in the UK pub sector, Heineken confirmed it will invest £40m in upgrading and reopening its Star Pubs & Bars division in 2025, creating nearly 1,000 new jobs.
