Local MP Mark Pawsey attended an event in the House of Commons last week to highlight the importance of the brewing and pub sector to Rugby’s economy. Within the constituency, there are over 80 different pubs alongside a growing number of independent microbreweries, demonstrating the strength of this industry.
According to new figures from a study commissioned by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) pubs and breweries support 1,539 jobs in the town and provides £48m in value to the local economy. The study was carried out by leading independent analysts, Oxford Economics.
Across the country the brewing and pub sector supports almost 900,000 jobs and adds £23bn in value to the UK economy.
After the figures were unveiled, Mark commented:
“Rugby has a great selection of pubs, with different events taking place every night. Local pubs are often the cornerstone of communities and our wide range of different pubs means that there is something for everyone. I was particularly pleased to have visited the George in Bilton earlier this year following its refurbishment and see the support it received from local residents.”
Mark continued:
“The report by the British Beer and Pub Association really highlights the important contribution that the sector makes for the local economy. One of the key findings is that nearly a third of the jobs provided in Rugby are for 16-24 year olds, giving many of them their first vital taste of the world of work.”
Brigid Simmonds, Chief Executive of the BBPA, comments:
“The economic impact brewing and pubs has on the UK economy is clear for all to see, but on a local level the large number of people earning a living from the trade has a huge impact. This new data drives home how important our sector is for a vibrant and thriving local economy, alongside the huge importance of pubs to our local communities.”