Liverpool "could lose its heart" if independent businesses are not supported through the cost of living crisis, according to the owner of one of the city's most popular pubs.
Anna Slater owns Georgian Quarter pub The Grapes, which has stood on the corner of Roscoe Street and Knight Street since the 18th century. In August, as the number of pubs in England and Wales fell to its lowest number ever, she told the ECHO about the battle facing the hospitality industry as inflation increased running costs for venues and left customers with less money to spend.
The landlady said the cost of living crisis is another "body blow", following swiftly after the coronavirus pandemic hit the hospitality industry hard.
READ MORE: The city centre pub standing defiant in the face of cost of living 'body blow'
With the ongoing crisis continuing to prove drastic to businesses up and down the country, Anna told the ECHO that independent venues like her own face difficult decisions, including regarding opening hours in the face of increased energy bills. However, she hopes that pubs can play an important social role during what continues to be a tough winter for many.
Anna said: "It's definitely been a tough year - on the back of two tough years - but The Grapes remains a popular pub so we're weathering the storm as best we can. Income is down, costs are up but we are committed to doing our best for both customers and staff as far as we can, but the balance of keeping prices down whilst meeting our commitments and ensuring staff can live is a precarious one."
Among the city's more distinctive pubs, The Grapes draws a diverse crowd for its bohemian atmosphere, wide range of ales and live jazz every Sunday. Anna hopes that her pub will continue to attract people, providing a warm and sociable sanctuary.
She said: "I suppose some people might justify coming to the pub as it is warm, and everyone needs to let off steam with friendly folk, especially in hard times", and added: "When times are hard, the need for a night out can become really important, but I tend to think people will cap their spending."
As such, Anna believes more has to be done to support independent businesses after a brutal few years of existential challenges. She fears that the city will suffer irreparable damage if independents cannot find a way through the crisis.
Anna said: "There's definitely a need for an overhaul of utility pricing and/or government support as this situation is untenable for many. We will continue to be open seven days a week as long as we can but heating such a large space is a genuine concern.
She added: "There's no question Liverpool could lose its heart, utility bills plus the possible end of free parking will inevitably impact many businesses, and as usual is the small independents that will fall - big chains and 'student bars' will probably be fine. Running a pub these days isn't a great option."
Anna will hope that for many punters, a night in The Grapes remains one.
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