Vale of Clwyd Senedd Member, and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism, Sport, and North Wales, Gareth Davies MS, has written to the Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant MS, to raise concerns regarding the future of pubs across Wales, amid substantial financial strain on the industry.
In his letter, Mr Davies highlights the significance of pubs as a cornerstone of cultural and community life and raises both the economic and cultural impact of a high rate of pub closures with industry leaders reporting increasing financial strain. Figures show that in 2023 alone, 63 pubs closed in Wales, more than one every week, and at a rate more than double that of England. Since 2017, 272 pubs have shut their doors, leaving thousands of jobs affected and communities across the country without one of their last remaining social hubs.
Many in the sector cite rising energy bills, staffing costs, and the burden placed on the industry by increased employer National Insurance contributions and business rates as the key factors behind these closures. Research by industry bodies suggests Welsh pubs are paying thousands more in business rates compared to those in England, leaving them at a competitive disadvantage and threatening their long-term survival.
Mr Davies urged the Welsh Government to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation, engage directly with the sector, and reassess the business rates relief available to hospitality venues. He argues that without intervention, there are growing fears that more historic pubs, some dating back centuries, will be lost, undermining both the economy and the cultural fabric of Wales.
Commenting, Gareth Davies MS said:
“The fact that Wales lost more than one pub every week last year, at a closure rate more than double that of England, should set alarm bells ringing. These figures highlight just how much harder our publicans are struggling compared to elsewhere in the UK.
“Pubs are under enormous financial strain, from soaring energy bills to crippling business rates, and increases to National Insurance. Many are making just pennies on a pint, and without urgent intervention, more will be forced to close their doors.
“I am calling on the Welsh Government to step up and provide meaningful support to save our pubs, which not only benefit the Welsh economy, but also form part of our cultural heritage.”
