6 Pubs a Week Close Their Doors – How to Make Sure Yours Isn’t One of Them

As a video production company that specialises in the hospitality and F&B sectors, we speak to a lot of Landlords and Pub Owners. This is what we’ve noticed:

In recent years, pubs across the UK and many parts of the world have faced a sobering reality: on average, six pubs a week are shutting their doors for good. Rising costs, changing consumer habits, staff shortages, and increased competition all contribute to this difficult environment.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Many independent pubs are not just surviving — they’re thriving. The difference? Adaptability, smart management, and a laser focus on what their customers really want.

If you’re a publican, bar owner, or manager and want to future-proof your business, here’s how to make sure your pub doesn’t become just another statistic.

1. Know Your Numbers Like You Know Your Regulars

You can’t manage what you don’t measure. Profit margins in hospitality are notoriously thin, so it’s vital to:

• Track daily and weekly performance – Know what drinks and dishes are selling and which are wasting money.

• Monitor costs closely – From beer deliveries to wage bills, make sure every penny spent has a return.

• Use systems – POS systems, inventory software, and smart accounting tools are essential. Don’t leave it to chance (or scribbled notes on beermats).

2. Offer More Than Just Pints

Pubs are no longer just places to grab a drink — they’re community hubs, event spaces, remote offices, and dining destinations. Ask yourself: what does your pub offer that people can’t get at home?

• Host events: Live music, quiz nights, food pairings, or local meetups can increase foot traffic.

• Upgrade your food: A strong food menu can boost profits and attract a broader audience.

• Embrace the coffee culture: More pubs are doubling as cafés during the day to tap into the remote worker crowd.

3. Get the Word Out (Consistently)

You might be running the best pub in the county, but if no one knows about it, it won’t matter. Visibility is everything.

• Maintain active social media accounts where you post regularly about events, specials, and behind-the-scenes.

• Create a Google Business profile and encourage regulars to leave reviews—it boosts local search visibility.

• Build an email list – Promotions, events, and updates sent directly to your customers’ inboxes keeps them engaged and coming back.

4. Invest in Your People

Staff turnover is one of the biggest challenges in hospitality — and it’s expensive. Hiring, training, and retaining a great team is essential for long-term success.

• Create a positive culture – A happy team brings better service, and better service brings repeat customers.

• Offer training and growth opportunities – Upskill your employees and give them a reason to stick around.

• Reward loyalty – Recognise your top performers and celebrate successes.

5. Know (and Engage) Your Local Community

Pubs that foster a sense of belonging become staples of the neighbourhood. Create a culture of connection, not just commerce.

• Partner with local producers and suppliers.

• Sponsor local events or charity fundraisers.

• Make your space available for community groups, book clubs, or school reunions.

A pub that’s truly part of the community often becomes indispensable to it.

6. Stay Adaptable

Markets change. Tastes evolve. Laws and regulations shift. What worked five years ago may not work now.

• Keep an eye on trends – Craft beer still booming? Is no- and low-alcohol on the rise? Vegan food in high demand?

• Adjust your offering accordingly – Whether it's modernising your drinks list, updating your decor, or even experimenting with new formats like “pop-up” food nights.

• Use slow periods for R&D – Try new concepts on quiet nights and test what resonates.

Final Pint: Don't Just Survive — Lead

Every week, six pubs close — but others are finding new life. The difference is not just location or luck. It’s strategy, community focus, and a willingness to adapt.

Running a pub in today’s climate isn't easy, but with the right mindset and tools, it's more than possible to build a thriving, sustainable business. So raise a glass — not just to surviving, but to thriving.

Cheers to making sure yours isn’t one of the six.