Pub operators 'cautiously optimistic' for 2012

After a difficult trading year, more than half of operators (53 per cent) said like-for-like food and drink sales across their business were up 10% or more in the three weeks from December 11. Overall, 95% of respondents said trade was up year-on-year over the three-week festive period.

Many of the ALMR operator members said sales were “ahead of expectations”, but admitted this was compared to the the same period in 2010, when snow engulfed much of the country.

The pub industry still faces a significant number of challenges and respondents to the survey were asked to pick a shopping list of priorities for the year ahead.

The three key areas were: pushing for a cut in VAT for hospitality businesses; continuing to ensure the Licensing Act is fair and appropriate and tackles the way the off-trade sells alcohol; and promoting a more positive image of the industry.

Kate Nicholls, ALMR strategic affairs director, said: “These figures reveal the trade received a much needed sales boost at the end of 2011. However, significant economic and regulatory challenges remain for many in the industry – not least controlling operating costs, where our benchmarking work remains vital.

“The ALMR will continue to lead the charge in fighting for the industry and promoting the hugely positive economic and cultural impact that pubs and bars have on the UK.”

Looking ahead to 2012, the feeling among operators is of cautious optimism, according to the survey. High profile events, such as the Olympics, the European Football Championships and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations are adding to that feeling.