British pubs continue to close at an alarming rate - another 383 closed in the first half of 2023, compared with 386 in the whole of 2022.
The statistic has resulted in a letter signed by over 200 leading hospitality leaders to the Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt calling on him not to impose a proposed hike in business rates next year.
Among them is celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, who told The Daily Telegraph: “The hospitality industry has taken a battering in recent years.
"The stark reality for many businesses is that with rising costs and ongoing challenges, time is running out and without further support from the government, they will shut their doors.”
Pubs are a primary location for Category C machines and other coin-operated machines. The letter continued: “Without action, we will see continued venue closures, job losses and cancelled investment that will harm our high streets and communities in every part of the country.”
Picture: The Daily Telegraph
