Over the last few weeks, we’ve discussed the toll COVID-19 is taking on UK retail, and, more specifically, the knock-on effect of the lockdown and economic recession on the commercial real estate sector.
This week, we begin our foray into other sectors that have particular relevance to clients and friends of Blue Door Property Guardians.
Where else to start but the pub? Whether you own one, run one, or patronise one, there’s a pub close to your heart that may not see out the year. COVID-19 has thrown unprecedented challenges at the British Pub, from months of forced closure to mistrustful clientele. To our mind, one of the greatest tragedies of the crisis is the fact that many of our favourite spots have been unable to resume trading since lockdown, or are lacking the bums on seats required to keep their doors open.
So, pubs need our help, and help them we will. But to do that, we need to get our facts straight! Here is a survey of how British pubs are faring since COVID-19:
Re-Open Stats for Licensed Premises
Licensed premises were allowed to reopen in early July. Those that opened their doors on cue did so just in time for Summer, when pubs and eateries traditionally make money if they boast outdoor seating. But this year, less than 62% of licensed premises in the UK were able to take advantage of the season, thanks to losses incurred during the lockdown and insecurity about the future. By the end of August, the situation was only a little better, with a little over three quarters of licensed pubs, bars and eateries open across the UK.
Group-run businesses have managed to regain some semblance of stability, with 89% reopening by the end of August. Independent businesses have been comparatively worse off, with only 61% of independent licensed establishments open by late August. And while the outlook for licensed premises is bleak nationwide, regional variation has surprised some analysts. London proved slower to recover than other cities like Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham.
Pubs Are Reopening At Higher Rates
But how have pubs fared compared with other licensed premises like restaurants, sports clubs and bars? Now here we have some good news: pubs have recovered relatively quickly, with over 90% of food pubs and 89% of community pubs resuming trading by late August.
The fact that pubs have shown a degree of reliance compared with other establishments is not surprising, given the loyalty of the British public to one of our favourite institutions. That said, you’d be mistaken to interpret this data as evidence of an industry bounce-back. The fact that pubs have reopened does not mean that those pubs will stay afloat, given the fearful atmosphere among customers, and household spending on the decline.
It is likely that many of our favourite establishments will not be able to cover running costs for long. Most won’t begin to turn a profit until life returns to normal and pubs can run at full capacity. In many cases, this will mean closing down, with the hope of reopening in more prosperous times. Even so, reopening may only be possible if those businesses manage to avoid racking up significant costs in the interim.
How Blue Door Property Guardians Can Help
Here at Blue Door, we’ll do whatever we can to help pub landlords stay the course, even if that means heading down to our local on Thursday, rather than waiting until the traditional Friday. Luckily, we have a much more effective way to help, in the form of zero-cost security.
Landlords, if you’ve had to close your pub temporarily, or a closure is on the cards, don’t add thousands of pounds in security bills to your list of worries. And while you’re at it, scratch Empty Rates and Vacant Property Insurance off that list, too!
Our reliable live-in guardians can secure your premises for free until you’re ready to welcome customers again. And if you’re wondering whether your pub is suitable for live-in security, the answer is most likely YES. The building just needs to be watertight and windproof, with a reliable supply of water and electricity. Leave the rest to us.
Contact Us
Get in touch on 02078594213 or admin@bluedoorpropertyguardians.co.uk. You can also contact us via our website for a same-day call back.