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A total of 161 British pubs closed during the first three months of this year, an equivalent of almost two a day.
The closures equated to more than 2,400 job losses, according to figures from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).
During the same period last year, 128 pubs closed, which equates to a 26% increase in quarterly closures so far in 2026.
The BBPA said the impact of all the measures added in the November 2025 Budget were “an eye-watering £322 million of business costs for pubs and brewers, meaning incredibly tough decisions for many and a major brake on investment and growth”.
After campaigning by many industry groups, the government announced extra business rates relief for pubs and music venues.
But the BBPA said more support is needed including “permanent and fair” business rates reform, a cut in beer duty and VAT, and reducing the regulatory burden.
Emma McClarkin, BBPA CEO, said:
“The scale of these closures is avoidable because pubs are doing a brisk trade, but their profits are wiped out by a disproportionate tax burden and huge costs.
“For too many, the sheer weight of taxes and regulatory costs have forced them to shut up shop, which will only hurt communities, workers, and the wider economy.
“This underscores why government’s business rates relief was so necessary, and the support such a welcome relief.
“We want to work with government to establish a permanent long-term plan that will deliver permanently lower bills, a fairer system and ultimately protect this treasured sector. This means more people in jobs, precious community spaces protected, vibrant high streets, and more investment and growth.”
