England World Cup run boosts pub sales, but some landlords struggle
8 reported
England’s World Cup run is providing a financial lift to some pub landlords, with reports of increased sales ahead of the semi-final against Argentina, according to a single-source report from The Guardian. Lisa Mayall, manager of the British Oak in Kingswinford, expects sales to treble on Wednesday night due to the rivalry with Argentina. However, not all pubs are benefiting, as Steve Hopkins, owner of the Shovel Inn in Stourbridge, plans to quit the business after the tournament due to poor turnout. The late kick-off times have posed challenges for some venues, but the 8pm semi-final start is seen as favorable. Industry group UK Hospitality reports 5.5 million extra pints sold during the group stages and a 10% sales increase overall. The report notes that two pubs a day are closing due to costs and tax rises over the past two years.
What’s reported
Lisa Mayall, manager of the British Oak in Kingswinford, expects sales to treble on Wednesday for the semi-final against Argentina.
England beat Norway 2-1 on Saturday night, with Jude Bellingham scoring both goals.
The British Oak can use its outdoor screen for the 8pm semi-final, doubling capacity to 400 people.
UK Hospitality reports 5.5 million extra pints sold during the group stages and a 10% sales increase.
Steve Hopkins, owner of the Shovel Inn in Stourbridge, is quitting the business after the tournament, citing poor turnout.
Hopkins said a good night’s takings would be about £3,000, but he expects only £1,000 on Wednesday.
Sam Hale, manager of the Bell in Brierley Hill, expects considerably more customers than a normal Wednesday night.
UK Hospitality chief executive Allen Simpson said two pubs a day are closing due to costs and tax rises.
Key figures
Lisa Mayall, manager of the British Oak in Kingswinford
Steve Hopkins, owner of the Shovel Inn in Stourbridge
Sam Hale, manager of the Bell in Brierley Hill
Allen Simpson, chief executive of UK Hospitality
Jude Bellingham, England footballer
Sources: The Guardian
