The latest Monitor from CGA by NIQ and the Night Time Industries Association has revealed the number of late-night bars, casinos, clubs and other hospitality venues increased by 2 percent over the last 12 months.

The figure checks a 25.1 percent decline recorded since the start of the pandemic, however increased operational costs introduced in April are already worrying operators, with 40 percent expecting to close this year without urgent support.

“While our sector is remarkably resilient – modest figures of growth should not be mistaken for recovery,” said Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA. “What we are seeing is the barest flicker of life after five years of near-collapse. A 5 percent growth in nightclubs sounds positive – until you remember we’ve lost 34 percent of them since 2020.”

“The reality is the night time economy remains in a deep crisis, influenced in part by recent policy decisions such as those outlined in the Autumn Budget. Without urgent intervention, the small signs of resilience we’re seeing now will be put out entirely.”

Karl Chessell, director of hospitality operators and food, EMEA at CGA by NIQ, added “urgent and targeted action is needed to tackle this jeopardy and ensure hospitality can help kickstart an economic revival.”