Cost of a Pint in the UK to Pass £5 as Pubs Blame Government Budget Changes

The average price of a pint in the UK is expected to exceed £5 for the first time next month, sparking concerns across the pub industry.
According to the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), prices are forecast to rise by 21p to £5.01 in April 2025, as the sector faces mounting financial pressure.

The BBPA warns that recent government budget changes — including higher national insurance costs for employers, a significant minimum wage increase, cuts to business rates relief, and new packaging reform rules — could cost the pub sector £650 million this year alone.

As a result, landlords say they’ve been left with no choice but to raise beer prices in order to survive.

Major brewers like Shepherd Neame and pub chain Wetherspoons have already announced beer price hikes, with more expected to follow.

Emma McClarkin, CEO of the BBPA, stated:

“The cumulative impact of these taxes and regulations is now plain to see. It’s deeply unfortunate that for many pubs, the only way to stay open is to pass these costs on to customers.”

McClarkin urged ministers to take immediate steps to cap rising business costs to help keep pubs open, protect their community role, and ensure that the price of a pint remains affordable for everyday consumers.

With many pubs still recovering from the effects of the pandemic and inflation, the £5-pint milestone is a worrying signal for both business owners and beer lovers alike.
Source: Sky news
Image: GB news