Pubs to get Xmas boost, survey claims

Pubs could be set for a Merry Christmas after a survey revealed that consumers will spend 18 per cent more than last year on going out.

Despite predictions of doom and gloom, the hospitality sector is set to buck the trend with people flocking to pubs, restaurants and nightclubs over the festive period, according to the Deloitte survey.

With an average budget of £143 per person, in total pubs and restaurants look set to benefit from £6.8 billion in earnings during the Christmas period, an increase of £1bn on last year's figure.

Glyn Bunting, partner in the hospitality and leisure team at Deloitte, said: "Despite some concerns about loss of business when the smoking ban was introduced this summer, our research suggests the ban has encouraged rather than deterred consumers from eating out this Christmas.

"Despite some economic challenges, people expect to continue to eat out, because they want to and because they're busy.

"Our research also shows that there is a particular opportunity for operators to boost revenues over the Christmas period by catering to family groups and older people.

"Families are more likely to eat out together since the smoking ban came into force and providing friendly service, affordability and sensible menu choices will help attract them.

"Smart operators will also recognise that music can also be an alienating factor for family groups or older people and look to adjust their offering accordingly."

According to the poll of more than 1,000 adults, men plan on spending £178, while women will spend £109.

The survey also found significant differences in spend around the UK. People living in the North West plan on spending the most this year, with their average budget of £178 being £22 more than the next largest spending region, London. The Welsh expect to spend the least - just £105 each.