Whether it's enjoying a beer before a football or rugby match, relishing a Sunday lunch in a country pub, or simply visiting your local, you likely know that the Welsh beer and pub sector stands out among the rest of the UK. Indeed, Wales boasts a proud beer tradition and heritage that dates back to the 6th century.
Today, the brewing and pub sector supports 43,000 jobs across Wales and contributes over £1.5 billion to the economy. However, this industry faces significant challenges, including rising costs and regulatory burdens. I’m sure we can all appreciate how badly affected the sector was by the COVID-19 pandemic and sadly, pub closures have been higher in Wales than the rest of the UK. Between 2018 and 2023, 6.5% of pubs in Wales closed, compared to 4.6% in England – and when they’re gone, they’re gone.
Ongoing regulations, such as the Deposit Return Scheme and Extended Producer Responsibility, further threaten the viability of beer and pub businesses amidst rising costs. With profit margins continuing to be squeezed, it is now more crucial than ever to support our pubs and breweries to ensure their survival and growth.
As Chair of the Welsh Parliament's Beer and Pubs Cross Party Group, I regularly engage with the sector and understand the persistent struggles that they must overcome. To highlight these concerns to the Welsh Government and other Senedd Members, I frequently sponsor events in collaboration with the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group, CAMRA, and SIBA, bringing attention to the issues that require action for the sector’s benefit.
For the past two years, I’ve also run a Best Pub competition, looking to find the best pubs in South Wales Central. It’s a celebration of the region’s outstanding pubs and I’m pleased to now announce that the winning pubs in RCT are The Windsor Arms CF41, The Brynffynon Hotel and The Bush Inn, Llantwit Fardre. Congratulations to all the winners; their hard work and dedication have truly made their pubs stand out in the community.
Beer and pubs are vital to the Welsh economy and tourism and I recognise the immense economic and social value of the brewing and pub sector. As a Senedd Member, I will continue to champion this cause directly with the Welsh Government while supporting and advocating for our fantastic local pubs.
ENDS
