FSB calls for beer ties to be scrapped

26th September 2008, 12:00pm

Some 94% of pub trade members of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) want the beer tie imposed by pub companies to be scrapped, accord to its research.

The survey, of 1,000 publicans, also found that a staggering 99% said little has improved since the situation was last reviewed back in 2004.

The FSB has warned this week that tying pub landlords into certain products is damaging their livelihood and called for a fairer rent review process.

Clive Davenport, FSB National Trade and Industry Chairman, commented: "Pubs are not just a part of the local community, in many places they are the local community. They generate employment, local income and an opportunity for people to meet.

"However, 27 pubs are closing down weekly and FSB members give testimony upon testimony how difficult it is to survive in the pub business today. Pub landlords often pay up to double the price for beer and cider, than they would if they were buying in a free market. If the ties were eradicated this would create a level playing field to enable pub landlords to compete with those who are not tied."

Weblink: www.fsb.org.uk

Related Articles:

• 22 Oct 2009 - Office of Fair Trading gives beer ties the all-clear
• 28 Aug 2009 - FSB urges government to abolish pub company tie
• 27 Jul 2009 - Solving pub industry problems must be sustainable
• 24 Jul 2009 - Beer ties and the Office of Fair Trading
• 24 Jul 2009 - 'Super-Complaint' prompts OFT probe into pub market
• 14 May 2009 - Unite supports pub beer supply investigation
• 13 May 2009 - MPs call for inquiry into 'beer tie' activity

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