Pubs and bars will be raising a glass to an £86 million World Cup boost but sales could have been £197 million more, estimates show.
The cold weather and cost of living headwinds have combined to limit the usual benefits from the tournament to Britain’s hostelries, according to the Centre for Economics and Business Research.
The CEBR points to RPI data suggesting that the average price of a pint in October rose by 5.9 per cent on a year ago to £4.15, putting off consumers amid high energy and food costs.
The switch to a winter World Cup has also been a hindrance rather than a help, as customers opt to stay at home rather than trek out into the rain and snow. The winter weather also limits options for outdoor seating, while demands on indoor space are increased by Christmas bookings.
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