The UK economy grew by 0.2% in April after contracting 0.3% in March, helped by strong trading in pubs and bars.
According to the Office for National Statistics, the services sector expanded 0.3%, with output in consumer-facing services such as stores and restaurants growing by 1% following a fall of 0.8% the previous month.
The largest contribution to the rise in consumer-facing services came from food and beverage service activities, which grew by 2%.
Consumer-facing services remain 8.7% below their pre-Covid levels in February 2020.
The GDP figures are in line with analyst expectations, with the Bank of England expected to raise interest rates again at its next meeting on 22 June.
Responding to the figures, Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “It is positive to see the UK economy start to return to growth, with pubs across the country playing a leading role in that. These figures demonstrate that even when times are tough, people want to enjoy a visit to their local pub.
“As an industry we consistently contribute to the economy, and despite a tough few years, have continued to support jobs and livelihoods on high streets and in towns, villages and cities across the country. Despite this, and ongoing support from the public, profits are being stripped away by high inflation and pubs trying to keep costs low for customers, the Government must take meaningful action to bring inflation down and ensure we can continue to invest, grow and support our economy.”
