Vast majority of publicans gloomy about trade, claims report

The overwhelming majority of publicans expect trade to worsen, while three-quarters report a continuing decline in customer spending on drink, a study has shown.

Spending on food is also down, according to a survey carried out on behalf of the country’s two vintners’ groups. More than nine out of 10 publicans attribute much of the decline in trade to the smoking ban and to stricter drink-driving laws.

According to the survey, conducted by accounting firm RSM Farrell Grant Sparks, 82% expect the pub trade to decline further, while 92% said they were of the view that the tightening of drink-driving laws has had an impact on the extent to which people visit their local pub.