The Office For National Statistics reported a 0.1% increase in GDP in November, aided by sales in pubs and bars during the World Cup.
UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “Today’s GDP figures once again underline the importance of hospitality in driving economic growth and recovery.
“The World Cup provided a significant boost in November, with pubs and bars reporting sales up 30-40% on matchdays. This once again shows the power of big sporting events, even in the winter, and the important role our venues play in bringing communities together.
“However, the figures also highlight the impact strike action had on the sector and the cost of lost sales is likely to be set out more starkly in next month’s figures.
“While hospitality has yet to recover to pre-Covid levels, in real terms, today’s figures demonstrate the role the sector can play in boosting the economy. While times are challenging right now, with the right support and investment the sector can both survive and thrive; delivering long-term economic growth, creating jobs and continuing its tradition of investing in our communities.”
The British Chambers of Commerce added: “The figures provide further evidence that UK economic growth is heading in the wrong direction despite this period normally being among the busiest for the retail sector.
“While month-on-month GDP grew by 0.1%, this is a volatile measure. The three-month average, standing at –0.3%, sends a clearer signal of the current trajectory of the economy,” it said.
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