Research from YouGov states that the 2023/24 financial year saw a total of 470 pubs shutting their doors across the UK, with the North West losing 72 pubs. Although the outlook for the sector might seem alarming at a first glance, the picture isn’t entirely bleak, particularly in the North West. With new venues opening and many old sites evolving, the region is witnessing a groundbreaking evolution and showcasing a continued optimism in the licensed leisure market.
The North West continues to see resilience in its pubs market, despite wider challenges in the sector.
Breweries open new formats and food halls prove popular
Savills research supports this showing that around 30 venues are opening every week, many with a fresh take on the traditional pub model. In particular, we have seen the trend of breweries opening their own bars adding a fresh twist to the mix. In Manchester’s Northern Quarter, Squawk Brewery has launched Pelican, while Cloudwater has taken over Sadler's Cat, and Seven Bro7hers is extending its Amber Alehouse brand. Adding further variety is Diecast, which offers a 5,000-capacity venue and Manchester’s largest beer garden, open-air BBQ, and a New York-inspired beer hall.
While not a new concept, food halls, which combine food, drinks and entertainment, have also been a particular driving force behind the evolving licensed leisure sector in the North West with over a dozen opening over the last three years. Offering a broader, more inclusive approach to hospitality, food halls have established themselves as a high footfall driver throughout the day and evening. In the North West we have seen Bolton Market open in June this year which has a capacity for 360 people and features ‘Chill’ – a gin bar by The Bolton Gin Company. Other examples include Society, New Century, Kargo MKT at Central Bay and Exhibition.
Leisure offers and low-alcohol options help cater to all
Changing drinking habits have also played a significant part in influencing the landscape of the licensed leisure market, driven by a rising trend of Generation Z seeking low or no alcohol alternatives. Hinterland in Manchester opened in June 2024 and offers an alternative alcohol free social scene.
Additionally, competitive socialising venues have also played a key role in reframing licensed leisure. In fact, Savills research shows a 455% surge in venues combining attractions like bowling, axe-throwing, and escape rooms. Roxy Ball Room in Manchester is the blueprint of competitive socialising, and the owners have fully embraced the concept, with a total of 19 venues across the UK and massive expansion plans. The venue is home to beer pong, killer pool, shuffleboard, ping pong, indoor golf, bowling and retro arcade machines, and a fantastic food and drink selection, all under one roof.
While there is no escaping the fact that we are seeing a raft of pub closures across the North West, we are at the same time witnessing a diversification of the market which is widening its appeal to different tastes and a greater demographic. Pubs will of course continue to play an established and important role in the licensed leisure market, however it is vital that the sector is acknowledging the demand for a wider range of options and responding to this.