A recent survey reveals a continuing decline in the UK public house sector, with 45% of public house owners reporting a fall in sales in the last year and 25 public house closures every week

According to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels’ survey of public house investors and owners, the UK sector is undergoing a transformation due to the effects of the recession. The survey shows that public houses which only sell alcohol (‘wet’ public houses) are facing a much sharper decline than those with food on offer. Around 63% of public houses which sell food recorded an increase in sales over the last year, compared to a 66% decline in ‘wet’ led public houses.

However confidence in the London market remains high, with 39% of investors identifying the capital as having the strongest potential for property price growth within the sector.

Harry Hawksby, Director in the Licensed Leisure and Hotels division at Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, said: “Whilst conditions remain challenging for the UK public house sector, the medium-term outlook is positive, especially in London and the South East. The number of public houses closing weekly has also fallen from 37 to 25. There is a general sense of optimism, with the glass being half-full rather than half-empty.”

“Financing remains a real concern; there is little appetite for banks to provide cash due to perceived risks. Loan-to-value ratios are typically at only 50%, which is stifling growth in the market.”

“Social factors, such as the trend towards drinking at home, together with the general reduction in consumers’ disposable income, are also subduing the sector. However, if a public house is well located, well run and offers something extra such as food, the outlook is relatively positive.”