A new poll has found that half of Brits will avoid watching World Cup games at the pub this year, with late kick-offs and pricey pints taking a toll on turnout. The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 33% plan to watch matches at home instead, while 16% cited inconvenient match times as a deterrent.
Cost and Timing Concerns
For 15% of respondents, the cost of a drink is keeping them away this year, and 7% are less engaged with this year's World Cup compared to previous tournaments. This could mean publicans miss out on nearly £33 per customer, the average spend per game during the last World Cup.
Among those planning to head out, the latest kick-off they would be willing to watch is around 9pm, meaning games starting later could be a no-go for many. Work commitments are also a factor for 17%, making it harder to catch matches in pubs.
Campaign to Support Pubs
The research was commissioned by Simply Business to launch 'The Best Seat in the House', a campaign rallying the public to support their local pubs. It includes an installation at The Bricklayer's Arms in Putney and, from 16th June, invites pub goers to pledge to watch a match at their favourite independent pub, with the top-voted venue winning £5,000.
Former Arsenal and England midfielder Ray Parlour, who previously co-owned a pub, said: "Pubs and football go hand in hand. There's nothing quite like being in your local, cheering on your team and celebrating with friends and strangers alike over a last-minute winner. I know first-hand what it takes to keep a pub going and right now landlords are fighting harder than ever just to keep the doors open. Alongside other small businesses, these aren't faceless organisations; they're people who've put everything into serving their communities and they need our support."
Impact on Footfall
Overall, 42% believe late kick-offs will directly impact pub footfall this summer. Nearly a quarter (23%) cited difficulty getting home as a barrier, while 14% said unusual kick-off times could clash with parenting responsibilities. Another 12% think fans may stay away due to midweek disruption. In fact, 21% have noticed fewer pubs in their area planning to show the football this summer, according to the survey by OnePoll.
However, 41% added that if their team progresses deep into the tournament, they would be more inclined to head out and watch games at the pub.
Voices from the Industry
Chris Walsh, landlord at the Bricklayer's Arms, added: "For us, running a pub is about so much more than just pouring pints. Great independent pubs like ours are the absolute beating heart of their communities. There's an unmatched magic when everyone gathers under one roof to cheer on a team and there's nowhere quite like the pub during a massive summer of football. The reality is that the hospitality industry is facing an incredibly tough period ahead. Initiatives like Simply Business's 'Best Seat in the House' campaign are a lifeline, giving independent pubs a real boost right when they need it most. So, please go online and nominate your favourite pub - it would really mean the world."
Julie Fisher, UK CEO of Simply Business, said: "Independent pubs play a unique role in society, contributing enormously to the strength of both our local communities and economy. With publicans usually seeing a boost in footfall during international football tournaments, this summer's late kick offs will prove another challenge for owners operating in a difficult environment. Character, community, charm – like all small businesses, independent pubs offer a unique experience that should be cherished. That's why we're reminding the British public that, this summer, the 'best seat in the house' really is at your local."
