24 March 2025, 16:20

By Emma McClarkin OBE

Next week, a pint of beer will become a symbol of just how hard it is for British pubs to stay open.

The price of a pint is expected to rise by as much as 21 pence, pushing the average price from £4.80 to £5.01. This price hike is a result of Budget announcements which I fear could irreparably damage a sector which supports more than a million jobs and pours billions into the economy.

At the heart of the issue is soaring new rates and taxes for one of the most highly taxed sectors that consequently makes wafer-thin profits. While the penny off a draught pint gave a welcome nod to the industry the other announcements, including slashing business rates’ relief and imposing new employment costs, leaves pubs no choice but to........

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