This week EEDA announced new funding to support rural pubs in the East of England. This is the latest initiative available from Business Link to support hard pressed local pubs which are closing in record numbers following the smoking ban, competition from cheap supermarket sales and the economic downturn.

 

“Pub closures have an enormous impact on the whole community, especially in rural areas. Pubs are at the heart of their community, supporting local groups and clubs and providing a social centre. Business Link has been working closely with industry experts to provide support to publicans to help them survive and this additional funding will be warmly welcomed”, commented Edwin Jones, Business Link Rural Affairs Partnership Director.

 

“85% of UK pubs are either independent, or tenanted, rather than managed by breweries. They operate as small businesses which are often the owner’s home as well as their business. It’s these pubs that the funding has been designed to help.”

 

The new funding will cover up to £1000 towards the cost of additional services such as marketing and training identified following a business health check to help grow and develop the business. Publicans wanting this support will need to act quickly, as the fund is available on a first come, first served basis until the end of March.

 

“Business Link is well placed to help individual publicans”, explained Jones, “and we urge them to seek help and support rather than trying to face the hard times alone.”
 
Contact Business Link on 08457 17 16 15 or email healthcheck@businesslinkeast.org.uk for further information.