- The number of pubs, restaurants, bars, and hotels in the UK has increased for the first time in two years, indicating a potential recovery in the hospitality sector.
- By the end of June, there were 99,207 active licensed hospitality operators in the UK, with 462 new establishments added between March and June, an average of five per day.
- This marks the first quarterly increase since 2022, suggesting a positive trend, although the total number of establishments is still 1% lower year-on-year.
- The growth in the last quarter was partly driven by a recovery in mid-priced restaurants.
- Graeme Smith, Managing Director of AlixPartners, highlighted that this return to growth reflects market stabilization and could signal continued improvement in the sector.
London, August 19 (FFN) – The number of pubs, restaurants, bars, and hotels in the United Kingdom has increased for the first time in the past two years, signaling a potential recovery in the hospitality industry, which has faced significant challenges in recent years, according to a report by DPA.
As of the end of June, there were 99,207 active licensed hospitality operators across the UK, according to a Monday announcement by AlixPartners. This represents an increase of 462 new establishments from March to June, averaging about five new businesses per day. This is the first quarter-on-quarter increase since 2022.
Reports from the sector have also indicated improving revenues, partly due to falling inflation, which is easing the pressure on household budgets. The latest increase suggests that the sector may be on the path to recovery, even though the total number of establishments remains 1% lower compared to the same period last year. The growth in the previous quarter was partially attributed to a revival in mid-priced restaurants.
Graeme Smith, Managing Director of AlixPartners, commented, “The return to growth in the number of establishments reflects market stabilization and creates a more positive outlook for businesses and investors. We expect this growth to continue developing in the second half of the year as confidence increases.”
Growth in UK Hospitality Sector
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Active Licensed Operators (June 2024) | 99,207 |
| New Establishments Added (March-June 2024) | 462 (approx. 5 per day) |
| Year-on-Year Change in Total Establishments | -1% |
| Key Driver of Growth | Recovery in mid-priced restaurants |
| Outlook | Continued growth expected in H2 2024 |
