South East: Positive outlook for pubs before Christmas, says R3

Pubs are the most financially improved key sector in the South East over the past three months, according to research from R3, the insolvency trade body.

The Southern Committee of R3, which brings together insolvency practitioners from local accountancy, legal and recovery firms, has revealed that pubs in the region have had a 3.79% reduction in the proportion of businesses with a higher than normal risk of insolvency from August to November.

The research, compiled using Bureau van Dijk’s ‘Fame’ database of company information, tracks the proportion of businesses across thirteen key sectors that have a heightened risk of entering insolvency in the next year.

Julia Branson, who runs Branson Restructuring in Reading and is also a partner at James Cowper Insolvency Services, said: “While there is currently the highest amount of active pub companies since the start of the year, the figures show the lowest amount of businesses at high risk which is positive news for pub owners as we approach the busy Christmas party season.

“However it is by no means time to rest on our laurels and we will review post-Christmas figures with interest. We are also aware that many pubs will be struggling and we advise them to seek professional advice before it’s too late.”