UK pubs and restaurants cut winter hours to weather ‘perfect storm’ in 2023

The hospitality sector is facing a crisis after being hit with staff shortages due to Brexit, Covid-19 and now dwindling customer as revellers struggle with the cost of living crisis and high inflation. Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

Pubs and restaurants face a “perfect storm” of challenges this year as cash-strapped consumers slash spending and the government reduces its energy bills support – forcing many to cut their opening hours.

The industry faced a plethora of challenges in 2022, including soaring energy bills, staffing shortages, rampant food inflation and fragile consumer confidence.