Death of the Local Pub

Some Thoughts

In recent years, small businesses in the entertainment industry, such as comedy clubs and local venues, have faced significant challenges due to economic downturns. However, these businesses can play a vital role in supporting the survival and growth of other small businesses, particularly local pubs and venues.

According to a report by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), the UK’s pub industry supports over 1 million jobs and contributes £22.8 billion to the economy each year. However, the industry has faced a significant decline in recent years, with the number of pubs closing at an alarming rate. In 2019, 29 pubs closed per week, and the COVID-19 pandemic only intensified these challenges.

One way that small entertainment businesses can support local pubs is by booking events and performances at these venues. This not only provides a source of income for the pub, yet also helps attract customers and increase ovcerall footfall. Additionally, by booking local talent, comedy clubs and entertainment businesses can help to support and promote the local arts scene.

Another way small entertainment businesses can support local pubs is by partnering with them to offer package deals and promotions. For example, a comedy club could offer a discounted ticket to a comedy night for customers who purchase a meal at a local pub. This not only benefits the pub by increasing sales, but it also provides added value for the comedy club’s customers. So a win-win.

In addition to supporting local pubs, small entertainment businesses can also play a crucial role in revitalizing local communities. A vibrant arts and entertainment scene can attract tourists, increase property values, and improve the overall quality of life for residents. It makes such places a hub for the community.

However, it’s important to note that these small enterprise businesses face difficulties and challenges in this economic downturn. The government and local authorities should provide financial aid and support to these businesses to help them survive and thrive during this challenging period.

In addition to the statistics mentioned earlier from CAMRA, a recent study by the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) found that the pub industry has suffered a £13 billion loss in revenue since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also found that nearly half of all pubs in the UK have been forced to lay off staff, with an estimated 120,000 jobs lost in the industry.

Furthermore, a report by the Center for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) found that the UK’s nighttime economy, which includes bars, nightclubs, and live music venues, has lost £66 billion in revenue due to the pandemic. The report also projected that the night-time economy will not fully recover until 2024, highlighting the need for immediate support and assistance for small businesses in this sector.

Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) also showed a decline in the number of small businesses in the arts, entertainment, and recreation sector, with a decrease of 12.5% in the number of enterprises between 2019 and 2020

Gov Office of Business Trade Link to the above Chart

This data highlights the dire financial impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on small businesses in the entertainment industry, particularly pubs and live music venues. Without the immediate support offered and future assistance, many of these businesses may not survive the economic downturn and shifts that are coming.

The government and local authorities need to provide targeted financial aid and support to small businesses in the entertainment industry to help them weather the economic downturn. This can include grants, loans, and tax relief, as well as measures to promote and support the local arts scene.

In conclusion, small enterprise businesses such as comedy clubs can play a vital role in supportng the survival and growth of local pubs and venues during economic downturns. However, these businesses are also facing significant financial challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The government and local authorities really need to provide targeted financial aid and support to these businesses to help them survive and thrive in the current economic climate.