1. Business rates
Labour’s manifesto in the run up to the general election last year saw the party pledge to reform business rates in a bid to support high street businesses.
Following the party coming into power last summer, the Treasury confirmed to The Morning Advertiser reform would be happening.
At the Budget last month (Wednesday 26 November), Chancellor Rachel Reeves promised the lowest business rates since 1991.
However, analysis from global tax firm Ryan found while the Government confirmed a permanent system for lower retail, hospitality and leisure multipliers from April next year, the support available to pubs will significantly reduce once the temporary 40% discount is withdrawn.
Further info from the tax analysts revealed luxury operations Harrods and Selfridges were handed a tax cut.
Data from Oxford Partnership found 87.6% of hospitality outlets will see an increase in their rateable value from April 2026.
Operators across the sector have now banned Labour MPs from their premises - a movement that started when owner of the Larder House in Southbourne James Fowler placed a sign on his door, barring Labour MPs in protest at the Government’s Budget and the rising burden of business rates.
2. Acquisition news
February saw Fortress Investment Group reveal it had completed on a deal to acquire Loungers for £354.4m, after the acquisition was first announced in January.
There was a flurry of activity as we entered spring with Punch taking on four sites from Everards followed by The Restaurant Group purchasing 10 freehold pubs from Oakman Group.
Later in the year (July), it was revealed Upham Inns bought 14 pubs from Oakman Inns, meaning the former doubled the size of its estate.
Meanwhile, towards the end of 2025 (December), JKS pubs rebranded after being sold to a US-based private investor and is now trading as the Ardent Pub Group (Ardent).
3. Clarkson’s country pub
While TV presenter turned farmer turned publican Jeremy Clarkson opened the Farmer’s Dog in Burford, Oxfordshire last summer (August 2024), this year saw the venue have a starring role in his Amazon Prime series.
From admitting opening weekend was “a disaster” to calling on famous friends who are also in the on-trade for advice, Clarkson’s Farm highlighted the plight of operators across the country.
4. The continued rise of low & no
Sales of low and no beer continued to grow and this year, Butcombe Brewing Co saw record sales for its range while Stonegate saw demand up almost a third (32%) in the first quarter of 2025.
A number of brands launched new products in the segment this year including Madrí Excepcional 0.0% and Beefeater 0.0% while Budweiser Brewing Group revealed it was launching Stella Artois 0.0 on draught.
5. Changing consumer behaviour
Data from Lumina Intelligence highlighted how consumers are drinking less as well as visiting the on-trade and returning home earlier.
It showed winding down or relaxing was the fastest-growing reason to visit a pub, overtaking treat occasions and becoming the joint third most popular mission, signalling a move away from high-tempo visits.
Further data from CGA revealed community pubs were showing renewed strength as younger consumers were driving a rise in visitation and engagement.
Meanwhile, the revival of wet-led pubs was one topic covered on The Morning Advertiser‘s Lock In podcast, discussing if younger consumers seeking “authentic” experiences was a trend that’s here to stay.
