UK pubs, bars and restaurants revealed their average bills have surged 81% over the past year as firms make further pleas to the Government for support. Industry bodies have revealed that less than a third of hospitality businesses are optimistic about their future after swallowing mammoth energy price increases, as well as more expensive food and wage bills.
Data collected by CGA by NielsenIQ on behalf of the British Institute of Innkeeping, UKHospitality, the British Beer and Pub Association and Hospitality Ulster revealed the extent of the current turmoil facing the industry. The research showed that 29% of hospitality businesses said they feel optimistic about the next 12 months.
Business owners said they are particularly concerned about energy costs, with 86% of firms saying it was a worry. It comes around a year since energy bills rocketed after the Russian invasion of Ukraine sparked a sharp uptick in gas prices.
