The cost of a pint in London may soon exceed £5 for the first time, reflecting a potential nationwide increase. Rising taxes imposed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves are being cited by publicans as the primary reason for this looming milestone. A recent study by Frontier Economics reveals that the average price of a pint could hit £5.01, a rise from £4.80. The British Beer and Pub Association asserts that landlords are compelled to raise prices to counterbalance impending tax increases slated for April. These increases include a hike in the national minimum wage and elevated national insurance rates. Additionally, discounts on business rates for hospitality industries are set to decrease from 75% to 40%. The BBPA’s CEO, Emma McClarkin, highlights the unfortunate necessity for pubs to pass these increased costs onto consumers, fearing it will lead to an average pint costing beyond £5. The sector’s plight is further exacerbated by the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis, which have seen the number of pubs in England and Wales drop below 39,000 for the first time in December 2024. McClarkin calls for urgent government intervention to mitigate business costs, ensuring the survival of pubs and keeping beer prices within reach for all.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/mar/24/sobering-news-pubs-say-average-cost-of-a-pint-will-rise-above-5