The Saye and Sele Arms has closed temporarily due to ever-increasing energy and suppliers’ costs combined with ‘Dry January’ and the traditional downturn in business post-Christmas.
This comes after data revealed the average pub saw sales drop by £855 over the key trading dates during the 2022 festive season, with UKHospitality warning the sector is facing a winter challenge “like no other”.
“It is not even viable to open the doors right now,” said the licensee in a Facebook post.
They continued: “We will now re-evaluate our business model and make a decision as to the viability going forward of continuing to try and make the business work.”
One user commented: “Very sad to hear. I hope you can reopen when it’s viable”. Another added: “All the best, difficult decisions to be made in difficult times.”
Difficult decisions
The pub said closing the doors was the “hardest thing to close the doors but needs must”.
Cost pressures have hit hospitality hard across the board. Manchester Brewing Company also announced it would cease trading yesterday due to debts incurred during lockdown, the effect of the cost-of-living crisis on trade and spiralling costs.
On Twitter, a spokesperson said: “As I load the sign into the back of the van to take top the tip, I guess this presents the most opportune moment to confirm Manchester Brewing Company has ceased to be."
Thanks and goodbye
They continued: “I’ll be around for a bit tying up loose ends, but for now, let me say a hue thank you to all those who have supported us, championed us and on occasion aided and abetted us!
“Keep supporting the little guys.”
Calsberg Marston’s Brewing Company also closed Cumbrian operation Jennings Brewery in Cockermouth last year.
The Campaign for Real Area dubbed this a “devastating blow for the area’s brewing heritage.”
