UK pubs set for boom as England faces Spain in Euro 2024 final

Greater Manchester Pubs are optimistic about a much-needed increase from England’s Euro 2024 final match.

Surge in Pint Sales Expected

Industry experts predict that around 10 million extra pints will be sold across the UK on Sunday as Gareth Southgate’s England team plays Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, generating an additional £48 million in trade.

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) estimates that the North West alone will see a minimum of 1.1 million extra drinks sold in the region’s 5,247 pubs.

Extended Opening Hours Boost Trade

Andy Tighe from the BBPA highlighted that most pubs in the North West are licensed to stay open until 1am on Sunday night. This extension gives fans more time to enjoy the match and support their local pubs.

“The other bit of good news for pubs in the North West is that the vast majority are licensed to stay open until 1am on Sunday night. It will give fans even more time to support their pub,” Tighe said.

Record Takings During Euro 2024

Also read: UNLEASHING PERFORMANCE: THE MERCEDES-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+

Some pubs have already experienced a significant uplift in trade during the tournament.

The Church Inn in Swinton reported record takings, with landlady Steph Savage telling BBC Radio Manchester about the high turnout for England’s semi-final victory over the Netherlands.

“Because it was an 8pm kick-off on a Wednesday, I thought it would be busy, but not rammed. Boy, was I wrong, because I think the whole of Swinton was in the pub,” Savage said.

Community Spirit and Atmosphere

The BBPA noted that the Euros have shown how big events can draw people out and foster a sense of community. Tighe emphasized the efforts of pub owners to create an inviting atmosphere.

“Clearly, the pub owners in Swinton have gone to massive efforts to do just that during the Euros and really make a point of going the extra mile to bring people in and create that real sense of community, togetherness, and a real atmosphere that people want to come to,” he said.

Challenges and Optimism for the Future

Despite the positive impact of the Euros, the BBPA also acknowledged the challenges faced by the pub industry. About 500 British pubs closed in 2023. However, Tighe expressed cautious optimism, noting improvements in economic conditions.

“Some of the challenges of the last few years have started to fade. Sky-high energy prices have come down, inflation is getting better, and hopefully, the pressure on people’s pockets will start to ease for a little bit,” he said.

Looking Ahead

As England prepares for the final, pubs across the UK are gearing up for a busy night. The increased patronage is a much-needed boost for an industry that has faced significant hardships.

The sense of community and excitement surrounding the match is expected to create a memorable atmosphere for fans and provide a welcome boost for pub owners.