BBPA: Britain is on course to lose one pub a day in 2026

The British Beer & Pub Association has warned that the UK is on track to lose around one pub a day this year, The Morning Advertiser reports. By the end of September, 295 pubs had shut permanently. The BBPA expects about 360 closures by the end of 2026, which would top last year's net figure of 336.

The numbers - About 5,000 jobs at risk if the forecast lands, with more than half of those roles currently filled by under-25s - England accounted for 226 of the closures so far; Scotland 64; Wales 5 - Highest regional totals: south-east 42, north-west 39; the north-east had the fewest at 11 - Average pub contribution to HMRC put at about £200,000 a year; closures this year could cost the Treasury almost £72m - An extra £322m in costs for pubs and brewers is linked to the November 2025 Budget

CEO Emma McClarkin said when a local closes the damage is felt far and wide. The BBPA welcomed the Prime Minister's promised 20% business rates cut for pubs from next year, and is also pressing for a beer duty freeze, higher draught relief and a review of employment costs for under-25s.

What it means for operators These are national figures, not a local forecast. For groups and freehouses, the Budget asks match most operator briefings: rates, duty and youth employment costs.