Last week, I had the chance to sit down with pub owners from Poole at the Poole Arms and hear first-hand the challenges they have been facing. From soaring business rates to rising beer duty, employment costs, and the constant weight of hidden taxes, it’s clear our pubs are under immense pressure.
Owners told me how the system feels stacked against small, family-run businesses: unfair rate calculations, lack of government guidance, and rising costs that aren’t reflected in profits. Many are struggling to keep staff, cover sick pay, and run generational businesses they hope to pass on – all while competing with bigger chains and digital platforms.
I will continue to put pressure on the government and meet with business owners to ensure their voices are heard, their challenges are understood, and practical solutions are delivered. The government needs to protect these businesses and the jobs they provide before it’s too late.
Thank you to Michelle from the Poole Arms for hosting and for all the publicans who gave up their time to talk with me.
