Enterprise Inns wants cut in beer duty added to Government pubs plan

Pub operator Enterprise Inns has welcomed a package of Government measures to support community pubs but called for it to go further by reducing beer duty increases in the Budget.

In a statement released following pubs minister John Healey's announcement this morning, Enterprise said: "Enterprise welcomes the announcement by John Healey, the recently appointed minister for pubs, that this government is committed to supporting community pubs with real, tangible measures and hopes that the chancellor will use next week’s budget announcement to maintain this urgently needed momentum by reversing the swingeing increases in duty that have been applied over the last two years."

It added: "Our business model is continuing to evolve rapidly to address the challenges facing pubs and the competitive nature of the pub market, and over the coming months we will be launching a range of initiatives which incorporate even greater flexibility in supply arrangements.

"These initiatives include tie release option for wines, spirits, minerals, bottled beers and, where appropriate to a particular pub, some amusement machines. We are already in discussions with SIBA regarding the development of a guest ale arrangement which is exclusive to local brewers and are looking to offer even greater flexibility on discounts including free-of-tie pricing.

"Our existing plans will ensure that we are well placed to take advantage of the initiatives announced by the Minister and build on the progress that the industry is already making on standards and tenant protections through individual company codes of practice."

GMB welcomes government move on beer tie but remains wary of pubco response >>

Government tells pubcos to relax the beer tie as part of new action plan for pubs >>

Three main political parties agree need for beer-tie reform >>

By Neil Gerrard

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