Over 100 independent UK clubs shut in the last 12 months, report reveals
There was an alarming 31% loss of nightclubs between June 2020 and June 2023, the NTIA claims
Over 100 independent UK clubs have shut in the last 12 months, a new report has found.
On 7th August, the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) revealed that a report by CGA Neilson found that 31% of UK clubs were forced to permanently close their doors between June 2020 and June 2023. The report states that the worrying development comes "in the face of an ongoing and relentless wave of cost inflation."
NTIA added: "Rising expenses, including but not limited to rent, utilities, labor, and maintenance, have contributed to the distressing decline of nightclubs across the nation. These challenges have been further compounded by the ongoing global economic uncertainties brought about by the pandemic."
The report indicates that the independent nightclub sector has been the worst hit over the last three years, having experienced a 35% decline since June 2020. The nightclub industry as a whole has seen a 12% decline in the last 12 months alone. With the Midlands and North being the hardest hit, only 1130 nightclubs remain in the UK.
In a statement, NTIA CEO Michael Kill said: "The recent figures from CGA Neilson are extremely alarming, and if taken back to 2019 show an even more dramatic picture for these businesses, with losses nearer 40%."
"These businesses are facing some critical challenges, with many not knowing whether they will survive over the coming months. We have constantly highlighted to the Government the concerns around these businesses, particularly independent venues. Without further support we may lose many more of these businesses before the end of the year.”
Read NTIA's analysis on the new CGA report in full here.
The worrying figures come four months after the NTIA alleged that the UK Government is intentionally allowing nightclubs across the country to close at an alarming rate.
Last June, NTIA noted that soaring inflation amid the UK's cost of living crisis was having a significant impact on the UK's nightlife industry.
Revisit DJ Mag's longform feature on how the cost-of-living crisis is impacting UK nightlife.
