PUBS face widespread closures if hit in the Budget, an industry boss has warned — as many make just 12p profit per pint.
David McDowall has urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to throw the licensed trade a lifeline next week.
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Landlords have had a 75 per cent reduction in business rates since Covid.
But that is due to end in April and losing it would cost them an extra £2.5billion, figures show.
Mr McDowall, chief exec of the Stonegate Group which includes the Slug & Lettuce and Yates’s, said publicans had faced a storm of challenges since the pandemic.
They include high inflation, soaring energy costs and pressure on consumer spending.
He noted the British Beer and Pub Association recently revealed boozers make 12p profit per pint.
Mr McDowall added: “Landlords don’t have any more to give.
“Removing that rate relief would prove very costly for pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes.”
Senior hospitality industry figures have also asked the Chancellor to extend the freeze on alcohol duty — due to end on February 1.
The Treasury said it was pledged to support businesses such as pubs.