Rugby World Cup proves boost for pubs

According to early findings from CGA Peach's Coffer Peach Business Tracker, like-for-like sales for pubs were up 9 per cent in the week beginning 28 September, compared to 2.7 per cent for restaurants. 

CGA Peach's Trading Index also shows a significant increase on the days of England's games against Wales and Australia with the average drinks takings at bars more than £1,000 up on an average Saturday and up £6,000 at those within a three-mile radius of Twickenham. 

Pubs in cities hosting Rugby World Cup games also saw trade increase. In Cardiff takings were at least triple those of an average Saturday on the days of Wales' first two home games and Gloucester, Leeds, Birmingham, Newcastle and Milton Keynes all saw surges as a result of hosting games too, said CGA Peach. 

Account director Jamie Campbell said: “For pubs and bars that rely on drink for the bulk of their sales, events like the Rugby World Cup are hugely important, and our data shows they have capitalised on the opportunities. At a time when the sector as a whole is seeing food sales increase much faster than wet, it is good to see that pubs remain very popular places for people to meet, drink and enjoy their sport.”