Today’s news in brief – 08/07/24

Insolvencies of pubs and bars have jumped 30% in a year, according to data from UHY Hacker Young. For the year ended 30 April 2024, pub and bar insolvencies continued to rise over the last year with fewer and fewer people willing or able to pay an average of £4.75 across the UK for a pint.

Slug and Lettuce posted a pre-tax loss of £3.1m for the 12-month period to September 2023. While revenues inched down due to “the impact of the macroeconomic environment”, the bar chain views its performance as “highly respectable” given the cost of living crisis that has affected discretionary spending.

Social Pantry has a two-venue partnership lined up with the City of London Corporation. From 1 September 2024, Social Pantry has been appointed as the exclusive caterer for both Mansion House and The Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey), and will manage all aspects of the catering within the venues.

London’s Bohem Brewery has opened a second venue after taking on the lease of the Nicholas Nickleby pub in Finsbury Park. The pub has reopened after an extensive refurbishment, serving a range of beers brewed in “authentic Czech style” at the Bohem Brewery in Tottenham.