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Local pubs deliver invaluable socio-economic value, ministers must act to save them – new report urges

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Press release

Embargo date: from 00.01 a.m., Monday 23rd September 2024

Localis follow up report on the worth of our nation’s pubs reveals:

  • Economic Impact: The beer and pub sector contributes £34.3 billion to the UK economy annually, supporting over one million jobs.
  • Social Value: Pubs are vital for community cohesion, providing spaces for social interaction and combating isolation.
  • Public Support: a significant majority of British adults (72%) believe pubs have a positive impact on their communities.
  • Policy Challenges: But the current tax, regulatory, and planning environment poses significant challenges to the pub sector.

Local pubs deliver invaluable socio-economic value, ministers must act to save them – new report urges

Government must overhaul a counterproductive regulatory and tax landscape that threatens the future of the ever-popular British local pub as a vital social and economic anchor for communities across the country, a study published by the think-tank Localis today warns.

In a report issued today at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool entitled ‘Inn-Valuable 2: unlocking the socio-economic potential of our nation’s pubs’, Localis urges the government to launch a taskforce to clear obstacles that endanger the beer and pub sector which cumulatively supports more than one million jobs, generates £34.3bn in GVA to the economy and delivers £11.4bn in tax revenues to the Exchequer annually.

According to polling undertaken by YouGov for the report, 72% of people felt the impact of pubs to community life to be positive. When asked if pubs are important in bringing people together, more than four-in-five (81%) of British adults agreed they are, with just 14% feeling that they are not.

Polling carried out for the report showed nearly three quarters (73 percent) of British adults felt that pubs help combat loneliness in their local area. Among pro-community activities supported by local pubs, nearly half (42%) of people were aware of pub events that bring the community together, more than a quarter (27%) knew of local pubs that supported charitable causes and close to one in five, 19%, knew of local pubs that supported vulnerable people in their area.

The research identified from case studies taken pubs across the country some dominant themes on how the sector supports local people and communities, namely by:

  • combatting isolation
  • supporting local causes
  • bringing local business together
  • keeping prices down so pubs remain accessible social spaces for communities.

Pollsters also found that among those who’ve ever visited a pub more than half (53%) had met a friend in one, while nearly two-in-five (38%) of people had visited the pub to meet up with family, a quarter (26%) had enjoyed Sunday lunch in one and 11% of the public had attended a pub-held birthday party in that timespan. In addition, 7% of the public had used pubs for dating purposes and 20% watched a sporting event.

A key recommendation of the report calls for short-term support by extending business rates relief for hospitality and to increasing the window for this to three years in line with the spending review period to give long-term certainty to pub landlords.

The report authors also call for a government taskforce to arrest the decline of the Great British pub which would identify policies to ensure long-term sustainability for the sector, including:

  • reviewing business rates and excise duty;
  • providing employment incentives so pubs keep employing younger members of staff;
  • examining planning policies to support the night-time economy and preserving the role of local pubs as social, cultural and economic anchors in towns and villages.

Report author and Localis head of research, Joe Fyans, said: “Pubs are more than just businesses; they are the heart and soul of our communities.

“To ensure their long-term survival, we need a policy framework that recognizes their value and supports their continued success.”

Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “This research cements what people up and down the country know and believe – that the pub is a home from home, the beating heart of our towns and villages, and offers a warm welcome to people from all walks of life.

“As this research proves, pubs aren’t just about a pint – people know that pubs stave off loneliness, support the vulnerable in their communities, and raise millions for charity.

“While we know that brewers and pubs invest billions into the economy, their huge contribution to our communities and society is priceless and they must be supported.

“Government must use this Budget to cut beer duty, reform business rates, and maintain 75% business rates relief so that pubs and brewers can remain a cherished part of society.”

END

Press enquiries:

Jonathan Werran, chief executive, Localis
(Telephone) 0870 448 1530 / (Mobile) 07967 100328 / (Email) [email protected]

Notes to Editors:

  1. An advance copy of the report is available for download here:

https://www.localis.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Localis-Inn-valuable2-BBPA-Report-180x230mm-SEP24-03b.pdf

  1. About Localis

Localis is an independent think-tank dedicated to issues related to politics, public service reform and localism. We carry out innovative research, hold events and facilitate an ever growing network of members to stimulate and challenge the current orthodoxy of the governance of the UK.

https://www.localis.org.uk/

About British Beer and Pub Association

The British Beer & Pub Association is the leading body representing Britain’s brewers and pub companies. The Association is more than a century old and was originally founded as the Brewers’ Society in 1904. Our members account for some 90 per cent of beer brewed in Britain today, and own around 20,000 of the nation’s pubs.

https://beerandpub.com/

  1. Methodology:

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2054 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 30th – 31st July 2024. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).

  1. Key report recommendations

With each passing year of temporary patches and short-term support, the need for a comprehensive rethink of the framework in which pubs operate becomes more urgent. The election of a new government, and the beginning of a new political cycle, provide an opportunity to begin this task in earnest. In the short-term, there remains a need for the continuation of measures to shore up the sector. Over the long-term, there are several policy areas which must be examined as part of an effort to fix the foundations of the UK pub trade.

The short-term: continuing support over longer time frames

To continue to mitigate the closure of pubs across the country, the government must extend business rates relief for hospitality and increase the window to three years. This would bring the time horizon in line with the next spending review and provide more long-term certainty in the sector.

To continue to support the production, export and domestic sale of beer in the UK, the government must extend the beer duty freeze for another year.

The long-term: fixing the foundations of the UK pub trade

To halt and reverse the decline of the Great British pub, central government must launch a task force to identify routes to long-term sustainability for the sector. Some considerations for such a body would be:

  1. Reviewing business rates to look at the possibility of different multipliers for pubs and hospitality, along with the potential to provide discounts for pubs providing social value through diversification.
  2. Reviewing excise duty to look at how the tax can best support the brewing, domestic sale and export of beer in the UK.
  3. Providing employment incentives such as tax credits to ensure that necessary increases to the national living wage do not disincentivise pubs in their important role as employers of part-time, younger members of staff.
  4. Examining planning policies to see how the framework can support the night-time economy, along with pubs as social, cultural and economic anchors in town and village centres.

The ambitious policy agenda laid out by the government in the King’s Speech 2024 also provides opportunities to increase the long-term sustainability of pubs in the UK:

  1. The New Towns Taskforce should examine how new towns can boost pubs and hospitality through planning for vibrant town centres.
  2. As part of their push to drive good growth locally, local growth plans should include sections on the foundational, overlooked and night-time economies of place.

Polling

1. In general, to what extent do you feel pubs have a positive or negative effect in a community?

Unweighted base

2054

Base: All GB adults

2054

Very positive

33%

Slightly positive

39%

Neither positive nor negative

18%

Slightly negative

5%

Very negative

2%

Don’t know

3%

Net: Positive

72%

Net: Negative

7%

2. Still thinking about local pubs…How important, if at all, do you think pubs are in bringing people together?

Unweighted base

2054

Base: All GB adults

2054

Very important

33%

Fairly important

48%

Not very important

11%

Not at all important

3%

Don’t know

5%

Net: Important

81%

Net: Not important

14%

3. Which, if any, of the following activities have you ever done in a pub? (Please select all that apply)

Unweighted base

2054

Base: All GB adults

2054

Attended a birthday party

64%

Attended a wedding reception

41%

Been to a charity event

30%

Met up as part of a community group or activity

33%

Met up with friends

83%

Met up with family

73%

Watched a sporting event

46%

Had Sunday lunch

69%

Been on a date

49%

Watched live music

51%

Worked remotely

5%

Other

4%

Don’t know

1%

Not applicable – I have never been to a pub

5%

4.. Thinking about the last 3 months (i.e., since May 2024)…Which, if any, of the following activities have you done in a pub? (Please select all that apply)

Unweighted base

1930

Base: All GB adults who have visited a pub

1928

Attended a birthday party

11%

Attended a wedding reception

3%

Been to a charity event

3%

Met up as part of a community group or activity

8%

Met up with friends

53%

Met up with family

38%

Watched a sporting event

20%

Had Sunday lunch

26%

Been on a date

7%

Watched live music

12%

Worked remotely

1%

Other

1%

Don’t know

1%

Not applicable – I have not been to a pub in the last 3 months

25%

5. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement?Pubs help combat loneliness and isolation amongst people in my local area

Unweighted base

2054

Base: All GB adults

2054

Strongly agree

24%

Tend to agree

49%

Tend to disagree

7%

Strongly disagree

2%

Don’t know

15%

Not applicable – there are no pubs in my local area

3%

Net: Agree

73%

Net: Disagree

9%

6. Which, if any, of the following, applies to pubs in your local area? (Please select all that apply)

Unweighted base

2003

Base: All GB Adults who have a pub in their local area

2002

Supports charitable causes

27%

Supports people with the rising cost of living

8%

Holds events that bring the community together

42%

Supports vulnerable groups in the area (e.g. older people)

19%

None of these

20%

Don’t know

28%

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Poundland’s Last-Minute Rescue Deal

Poundland is pursuing a rescue deal to avoid collapse amid financial woes, affecting UK retailers.

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Poundland's Last-Minute Rescue Deal

Poundland is in a critical situation as it seeks a last-minute rescue deal to prevent its collapse. The British retailer, unable to purchase new stock due to severe financial constraints, faces an uncertain future. This development, reported on November 11, 2026, underscores a challenging period for the company and highlights broader issues impacting UK high street retailers. The potential failure of such a well-known brand has raised significant concerns about the health of the retail sector.

Gordon Brothers, a potential suitor for Poundland, is actively involved in efforts to secure a rescue deal. The firm is urging the release of necessary funding to finalise the sale, which is seen as vital to ensure the retailer’s survival. This move is not just about saving Poundland but also about stabilising confidence in the sector that has been increasingly under pressure. The stakes are high, and the outcome remains crucial not only for the company but for its employees and the wider retail landscape.

The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Poundland’s inability to secure new stock due to its financial woes is a direct consequence of deeper issues plaguing the retail industry. This predicament has sparked fears of a complete collapse, which would have significant repercussions for employees and consumers reliant on the affordability and convenience of Poundland stores. The retailer’s plight is a stark reminder of the precarious position of many high street brands in the current economic climate.

The broader trend of financial struggles among UK retailers is evident, as noted by Sky News. Poundland’s situation is emblematic of the pressures facing many high street businesses today. Rising costs, changing consumer habits, and intense competition from online retailers have created a perfect storm, threatening the survival of traditional brick-and-mortar establishments. The outcome of Poundland’s rescue deal could set a precedent for how other struggling retailers navigate similar challenges.

As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on whether the necessary funding and agreements can be secured in time to save Poundland. The company’s future hangs in the balance, and the need for a decisive resolution is paramount. The involvement of Gordon Brothers adds a layer of potential optimism, but the complex nature of retail financing means the path to a successful deal is fraught with uncertainty.

The implications for UK high street retailers are significant. A collapse of Poundland could signal further instability, shaking consumer confidence and potentially leading to a domino effect among other retailers. Conversely, a successful rescue could provide a much-needed boost to the sector, offering a template for similar deals in the future. The retail industry will be closely watching the developments, as the outcome will likely influence strategic decisions across the market.

In conclusion, Poundland’s pursuit of a rescue deal is a critical moment for the retailer and the broader industry. The company’s ability to navigate this challenging period will depend heavily on the outcome of negotiations with Gordon Brothers and the timely release of funds. As of now, all eyes are on this high-stakes situation, and the coming days will be decisive. The retail sector’s trajectory may well hinge on the resolution of this pressing financial dilemma.

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Paraguay President Santiago Peña Resigns Amid Bank Collapse

Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña resigns amid a bank collapse impacting millions, sparking a major financial crisis.

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Paraguay President Santiago Peña Resigns Amid Bank Collapse

On November 5, 2026, Paraguay’s political landscape was dramatically reshaped as President Santiago Peña resigned amid a severe financial crisis. This crisis, characterized by the collapse of a major bank, has left millions of Paraguayans with frozen savings, triggering widespread financial instability across the nation [The Guardian, November 2026]. The resignation came after intense public pressure, reflecting the profound impact of the banking sector’s failure on the country’s socio-economic fabric [The Guardian, November 2026].

The immediate catalyst for Peña’s resignation was the unprecedented bank failure that exposed significant vulnerabilities in Paraguay’s financial system. This collapse not only froze millions of savings but also drew international scrutiny to the country’s fiscal management [BBC, November 2026]. The banking debacle underscored the systemic issues within Paraguay’s financial institutions, raising questions about regulatory oversight and governance that have yet to be fully addressed.

Peña’s decision to step down was formally communicated through an official announcement, marking a pivotal moment in Paraguay’s political history [BBC, November 2026]. This move was largely seen as a response to growing unrest and a loss of confidence in his administration’s ability to manage the crisis effectively. The president’s resignation has opened a leadership vacuum at a critical juncture, as the nation grapples with stabilizing its economy and restoring public trust.

The international community has been closely monitoring the developments in Paraguay, with the bank collapse serving as a cautionary tale of financial mismanagement [BBC, November 2026]. While specific international responses were not detailed, the situation has likely prompted discussions on the need for stronger financial governance frameworks in similar emerging markets. The crisis has highlighted the interconnectedness of global financial systems and the potential repercussions of inadequate oversight.

As Paraguay faces this economic turmoil, the focus now shifts to the interim leadership and their strategies to mitigate the crisis’s impact. Restoring the public’s access to their frozen assets will be a priority, alongside implementing reforms to prevent future financial collapses. The path forward will require decisive action from both domestic policymakers and international financial bodies to ensure stability and confidence in Paraguay’s banking sector.

The ripple effects of this financial crisis extend beyond Paraguay, as regional economies assess their vulnerabilities to similar shocks. The need for robust risk management practices and transparency in financial dealings is underscored by this situation. Paraguay’s experience may serve as a catalyst for broader financial reforms within the region, promoting resilience against potential economic disruptions.

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of Paraguay’s response to the crisis. The interim leadership’s ability to navigate these challenges will set the tone for the country’s economic recovery and political stability. Observers will be keenly watching for signs of progress as Paraguay seeks to rebuild its financial credibility and restore normalcy for its citizens.

Peña’s resignation, though a significant political event, is just the beginning of a complex recovery process for Paraguay. The nation’s future hinges on its capacity to implement necessary reforms and regain the confidence of both its people and the international community. The lessons learned from this crisis will likely inform future policy decisions, shaping Paraguay’s path toward economic resilience.

In the aftermath of this crisis, Paraguay’s financial system will inevitably undergo scrutiny and transformation. The global financial community will be attentive to how Paraguay addresses its systemic issues, with the potential for this situation to become a case study in crisis management and reform. The developments in Paraguay may influence how emerging economies structure their financial governance in the years to come.

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FBI Identifies North Korea as Culprit in $6.3 Billion Binance Crypto Hack

FBI attributes $6.3B Binance crypto hack to North Korea, raising security concerns. Binance covers 90% of losses.

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FBI Identifies North Korea as Culprit in $6.3 Billion Binance Crypto Hack

In a striking attribution of cyber malfeasance, the Federal Bureau of Investigation has named North Korea as the perpetrator behind a colossal $6.3 billion hack on Binance, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges. This revelation underscores persistent cybersecurity vulnerabilities and intensifies geopolitical tensions already fraught with complexity [The Guardian, November 2026].

The breach, now recognized as the largest of its kind, has sent shockwaves through the digital asset community, raising urgent questions about the robustness of current security protocols within the crypto industry [Al Jazeera, November 2026]. Despite the significant financial blow, Binance has demonstrated resilience by covering a substantial 90% of the losses, reflecting its commitment to maintaining user trust and stability [The Guardian, November 2026].

Binance’s response to the hack has been proactive, involving collaboration with international law enforcement agencies to pursue recovery of the stolen assets. A spokesperson from the exchange affirmed, “We are working closely with law enforcement to recover the funds,” indicating a strategic approach to mitigate the consequences of this unprecedented breach [The Guardian, November 2026].

The scale of the hack, valued at $6.3 billion, places it squarely in the spotlight of global financial and security discussions. It serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in digital finance systems, particularly as they become more entwined with global economic infrastructures [Al Jazeera, November 2026].

North Korea’s involvement in such a high-profile cybercrime reflects broader geopolitical dynamics, where state-sponsored hacking has become a tool for economic gain and political leverage. This attribution by the FBI further complicates diplomatic relations and underscores the need for coordinated international responses to cyber threats [The Guardian, November 2026].

The incident has not only affected Binance but has also sent ripples across the broader cryptocurrency market, prompting investors and exchanges to reassess their security measures. The hack’s magnitude highlights the urgent need for enhanced protective measures and industry-wide collaboration to fortify digital asset exchanges against future threats [Al Jazeera, November 2026].

In the wake of this cyber assault, Binance’s robust response and coverage of losses may set a precedent for how exchanges handle such adversities in the future. It also emphasizes the critical role of transparency and accountability in maintaining user confidence and market integrity [The Guardian, November 2026].

As the situation unfolds, the interplay between cybersecurity and international politics will likely intensify, with potential repercussions for regulatory frameworks governing digital assets. The hacking incident serves as a catalyst for ongoing debates about the balance between innovation and security in the realm of cryptocurrency [Al Jazeera, November 2026].

Looking forward, the focus will remain on how Binance and other cryptocurrency platforms adapt to these evolving threats. Their ability to enhance security protocols and foster international cooperation will be crucial in defining the future landscape of digital finance. The world will closely monitor these developments, particularly as they relate to North Korea’s cyber capabilities and intentions [The Guardian, November 2026].

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