The survey of 2,000 people revealed the number of customers who felt confident visiting hospitality venues had doubled when compared to the beginning of 2021, having risen from 34% to 70%, and was a sharp increase on 52% from CGA’s research in July.
These figures came as the restrictions imposed on the sector as part of ‘Plan B’ to reduce the spread of Omicron, such as working from home and table service, were lifted tomorrow (Thursday 27 January).
British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive Emma McClarkin said: “Plan B decimated consumer confidence and in-turn our trade, which is why we are delighted to see the back of these measures from today.
Hugely positive
“It is hugely positive to see how comfortable the public now feel about returning to their local and office workers can do their bit by visiting their old pre-pandemic haunts.”
The return to office working and the reinstitution of ‘Plan A’ will increase footfall in towns and cities, boosting consumer confidence further, as well as reassuring pubs and brewers, who have experienced record levels of debt due to increased costs across the board from energy through to raw materials, and supply chain difficulties, according to the BBPA.
However, trade for the sector was down 30% on average across England during the second half of December 2021 when compared with 2019, according to CGA.
Following these figures, the BBPA has called for further Government support for the sector through the relaunch of its Long Live the Local campaign.
Reigniting the UK economy
McClarkin added: “We are grateful for the support the sector has received, however, there is much more to be done to secure the long-term survival of our much-loved pubs and breweries.
“We are calling on the Government to extend the current lower level of VAT, lower beer duty, and introduce business rates reform that reduces the disproportionate burden paid by pubs.
“With the right support we stand ready to re-ignite the UK economy.”
