Last orders! A pub a day is set to close this year

AN industry warning that the equivalent of more than one pub a day is set to close this year has sparked anger at Scotland’s “two high-tax governments”.

- By Ben Borland

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) has estimated that 378 pubs will close this year across Scotland, England and Wales, with more than 5,600 direct job losses.

It has called for the tax burden for the hospitality sector to be reduced.

Chief executive Emma McClarkin said: “Pubs are trading well but most of the money that goes into the till goes straight back out in bills and taxes. For many it’s impossible to make a profit which all too often leads to pubs turning off the lights for the last time.

“When a pub closes it puts people out of a job, deprives communities of their heart and soul, and hurts the local economy. However, it’s not too late to change this sad state of affairs.”