Publican Sector Outlook

It has been an exceptional year for businesses operating in the hospitality sector. Rolling lockdowns and repeated openings and closings of pubs has resulted in a year with challenges never experienced before. It has been particularly difficult for owners of ‘wet pubs’ who have remained closed for nearly twelve months. Looking at the sector from both a domestic and international standpoint, businesses will undoubtedly continue to face reduced revenues throughout 2021 as social distancing requirements will continue to impact on capacity and in turn profitability.

In this article, we look at the challenges facing pubs in Ireland and the impact COVID-19 has had on the industry. We provide insight and analysis from Chris Kelly, Managing Director of the Chris Kelly Group, who operate a number of licenced premises in Dublin City centre and its suburbs, on his views and experience in the industry, the current challenges facing it, advice and key steps for those who may be in a stressed financial position and his outlook for the future. With the emergence of Private Equity investment and demand for acquisitions, we also examine key considerations for licenced premises operators in the months ahead.