Murder of the dancefloor, as clubs keep closing
Closures show the crisis that the nightlife sector is currently facing in the UK.
New statistics on club closures have painted a clear picture of the crisis that the nightlife sector is currently facing in the UK.
According to the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), between March 2020 and December 2023, 396 nightclubs were forced to close their doors.
Recent data from December 2020 to December 2023 underscores a continued downward spiral, with an average of nearly 10 closures per month and two per week.
NTIA says there is a disproportionate impact on independent establishments, with 312 independent nightclubs succumbing to closure.
Additionally, the body says there is a notable disparity in the types of affected businesses, with tenanted nightclubs experiencing a 14% loss (32 businesses) and managed nightclubs losing eight establishments. NTIA is now calling for tailored support to address the challenges faced by independent operators.
A matter of marginalisation?
"The marginalisation of nightlife businesses has left them feeling neglected, questioning the government's motive, with limited avenues for survival," says Michael Kill, CEO of NTIA. "As we navigate recovery, it's imperative that policymakers acknowledge the vital role of these establishments and provide the support they urgently need."
In light of the situation, NTIA is demanding that the government takes immediate action to provide financial relief to struggling nightclubs. Central to this relief is the imperative for the government to reduce VAT to 12.5% across the board.
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