Altus Group has reported that 383 pubs, or more than two a day, closed in the first six months of this year.
The compared with 386 pub closures for the whole of 2022.
The group counts pubs which have closed or been converted to other uses.
The data came as the sector continued to campaign to have a 75% discount on business rate bills extended. The discount is scheduled to end in March 2024.
“With energy costs up 80% year-on-year, in a low-growth, high-inflation and high interest rates environment, the last thing pubs need is an average business rates hike of £12,385 next year,” said Alex Probyn, the head of property tax at Altus Group.
The Federation of Small Businesses’ national chair, Martin McTague added: “For many small businesses on the high street and town centres, the current relief is a lifeline.
“In April this is due to end, creating a cliff edge that will be hugely damaging to thousands of businesses. Ensuring the relief is maintained for those businesses that need it most will be key to their survival.”
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