Night Time Businesses Taking a Hard Knock
Shakespeare Martineau’s latest scoop for the Night Time Industries Association shows that pubs, clubs, and other late‑night spots in the UK are getting a harder hit than ever before.
Why the Numbers Matter
- Quarter‑on‑quarter jump: In the first quarter of 2023, 9 % of all administrations were in the hospitality sector—twice the 4 % seen in the same period last year.
- Year‑to‑date shock: From April 2023 to March 2024, 193 establishments went into administration, making up 11 % of every case. The previous year only saw 74 (5 %).
- Monthly spikes: October 2023 hit a record with 39 administrations, while January 2024 followed with 20. No two months were the same.
- Sector standings: In Q1 2024, hospitality was the fifth‑worst affected domain, after retail, manufacturing, real estate, and construction.
What This Means for the People Behind the Doors
It’s not just numbers—it’s the livelihoods of countless workers, owners, and volunteers who keep pubs and night‑time venues alive. The cost of running these businesses has climbed, and the recent dip in inflation has barely nudged the pressure.
Calling on the Government
Michael Kill, CEO of NTIA, warns:
“We’re in a political storm, so we need to face the worsening conditions at the front lines of the hospitality and night‑time economy.”
“The rising costs are real, and a modest inflation slowdown hasn’t done much to help. We must push the government—and the chancellor— to give the industry a boost, especially by cutting VAT. That relief would lift everyone involved.”
Ready for Change?
Shakespeare Martineau stands ready to provide legal guidance and support for businesses stuck in these turbulent times. If you’re a night‑time entrepreneur, stay in the loop—subscribe for real‑time updates right on your device.
