According to estimates, the UK is losing 50 pubs per month, adding to over 4,000 closures since 2020. Many social media posts blame government policies and tax structures for this crisis, but this view oversimplifies a much larger issue. While government decisions impact hospitality, they’re not solely to blame for the pub industry's struggles. Cultural shifts—like changes in social habits and consumer preferences—are altering the traditional role of pubs in communities. Furthermore, less than half of UK pubs are independently owned; the majority are leased by large pub companies that don’t always invest meaningfully in their operators. This complex ecosystem requires a broader solution-focused approach rather than scapegoating the government. Advocating for fairer policies while also holding pub companies accountable can help address the real challenges facing our beloved pubs and allow us to shape a sustainable future for the hospitality industry.

British pubs are much more than places to drink—they’re cultural institutions rooted in community, tradition, and shared experience. In the latest episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, Poppy from Fuller’s Smith & Turner sheds light on the unique culture and rituals that define pub life. Pubs serve as “third places,” or communal hubs, where locals gather and build connections. With unspoken rules like the queue at the bar and familiar traditions like weekly pub quizzes or Sunday roasts, pubs offer continuity and comfort.

Poppy highlights how pubs evolve throughout the day, from morning coffee shops to evening gathering spots, creating a dynamic flow of people and events. By preserving history while adapting to community needs, pubs embody British culture and hospitality. They’re not just businesses—they’re living institutions where community, culture, and hospitality come together, fostering connections that make people feel at home.

In our latest Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast episode, chef and founder of Ben’s Kitchen, Ben Knowles, shares his inspiring journey in the hospitality industry. From growing up in family-run pubs to launching his own catering company, Ben’s career has been built on hard work, passion, and resilience. He reveals early lessons learned alongside his parents, the power of adaptability—especially during COVID-19 when he pivoted his business to serve thousands of NHS meals—and the importance of balancing work with family.

Ben’s advice is filled with wisdom, from knowing your numbers to keep a business afloat, to going the extra mile for customers. One of his biggest insights? That hospitality thrives on a genuine love for service, which transforms every challenge into an opportunity. Ben’s story is a testament to the perseverance required in the industry, and his passion for food and people shines through.

Tune in for more real stories on the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast.