The Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA) has released survey results suggesting that half of the pubs, clubs, restaurants and hotels that it represents were down in terms of sales during Christmas and New Year 2022 versus the last 'normal' festive season.
A further 45% are facing energy rises of more than 250%, while 40% of outlets are facing added costs via rateable value increases.
As a result, 60% are closing early or for full days and won’t be operating to their full opening hours during the first quarter of this year.
