Survey: What does 2018 hold for your pub?
Last year industry insiders gave their predictions for what 2017 would bring.
The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) said it was concerned about high taxation differentials between pubs and supermarkets - as they sold beers for a cheaper rate than the on-trade - while British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive Brigid Simmonds predicted that Brexit would dominate the year.
Others, such as the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR), said it was employment challenges that it was concerned with, and the British Institute of Innkeeping said there was "no doubt the year would be tough".
But, is 2018 set to be even tougher?
In the last half of this year, Moody's Investors Service released a report warning that debt-laden pubs would suffer over the next 12 to 18 months, and global banking giant HSBC warned increased costs faced by the pub sector put the trade at risk of "serious damage" if another financial crisis were to occur.
And, in September, CAMRA called for more support for the pub industry after figures suggested British pubs are under "a greater threat than ever".
However, with a freeze in beer duty announced at the Autumn Budget, the extension of the £1,000 pub specific business rates relief, and MPs highlighting the struggle for the UK's pub, it is possible that the message is starting to get through.
So what does this mean for pubs in 2018?
With the rise of experience-led entertainment, new technology, embracing trends such as the health conscious consumer and street food, it could be an exciting time for the pub industry. But, will there be enough options for UK pubs to help survive everything that is currently being thrown at them?
With everything that has happened in 2017, what do you think 2018 has in store for your pub? Let us know by taking part in our survey.
