Greene King urges government to protect pubs ahead of coronation
In its latest research the leading pub company found out that pubs are still seen as the economic and social bedrock of local communities
Four in five Brits believe pubs are important for local communities, according to new research by Greene King.
Greene King’s report comes ahead of the King’s coronation and looks at the role pubs play in local communities, their social and economic impact, and how they have evolved with society since the last coronation in 1953.
According to Greene King, nationwide pubs act as centres for local initiatives, fundraising efforts and being the home for teams and groups and, while they may have evolved since 1953, it is clear that their role at the centre of communities hasn’t changed.
In addition to being social hubs, the research found that 64% of Brits believe pubs support the local economy, while 34% have worked in a pub at some point in their lives. With 61% of those who have worked in a pub having done so in their local area, it is clear that the sector also has a pivotal role in providing good jobs in local communities.
Amidst the upcoming celebrations, Greene King is urging the government to look at the future of the British local and how to create a regulatory environment which encourages investment and ensures pubs can continue to serve communities until the next coronation and beyond.
Nick Mackenzie, chief executive of Greene King, said: “Alongside the great career and training opportunities available in communities up and down the country, many pubs also provide vital services and act as hubs which support people in their local areas.
“The range of services, fundraising events and other community programmes organised by our general managers and tenants never ceases to amaze me and I am delighted to be able to showcase a handful of our fantastic pubs and the teams behind them in our new report.”
He added: “However, we must not forget that the future of the Great British Pub is far from certain. We have been through some challenging times over the past few years and we cannot afford to take pubs for granted.
“We need the government to create a regulatory environment which encourages investment – particularly through fundamental reform of business rates, which represent the highest regulatory cost burden for pubs – to enable us to continue to serve our communities, create jobs and contribute to the country’s economic growth.”
