Thousands of North's bar jobs could go, publicans warn

The future of the 34,000 people employed in the North's pub industry could be in jeopardy if the recent serious decline in business continues, it was warned today.

One in 20 pubs across the province – around 100 – expect to close by the end of the year according to the Federation of the Retail Licensed Trade (FRLT).

The stark results of a survey of members showed 35% had laid off staff in the past year and 24% expect to make further layoffs in the coming year.

It said 73% of publicans who responded to the survey had reduced the hours their staff work in the past year and 60% expect to have to do so again in the coming year.

Thousands of jobs are likely to be lost and many more left in the balance, said the federation.

Chief executive Colin Neill said: “The statistics being announced today shows quite clearly that Northern Ireland’s pub industry is in crisis.

“Ninety eight per cent said that the economic situation is impacting their business and 45% believe the next 12 months are going to be bad for business.

“Already 14% of publicans surveyed have reduced their opening hours to help make ends meet with an additional 23% expecting to have to do the same this year.”

In the last 12 months the duty on alcohol had been raised by nearly 20%, he said, and when added to increased production and distribution costs, it had left many publicans struggling for survival.

With cut price competition from supermarkets selling alcohol as a loss leader it was hardly surprising 14% of publicans survey expected to attempt to sell their premises this year, said Mr Neill.

He added: “Fifty four per cent of publicans claimed that they felt the Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly are not supportive of the trade with 47% stating that a reduction in rates would help business.”

He said 44% believed the introduction of minimum pricing would help to restore business and ensure supermarkets could no longer sell at below cost price.

The pub trade played a vital role in the local economy contributing £1bn (€1.15bn) annually and employing 34,000 people, he said, and the jobs were in serious jeopardy unless action was taken.

“These findings are a wake-up call that we need to act now to ensure we do not lose one of our most treasured assets and a vital component of our economy.

“I would call on the Executive to take stock of these findings and to work with us to ensure that we do all that we can to save our local pubs and the jobs of those who work in them,” said Mr Neill.