Data from CGA Nielsen has revealed that between June 2020 and June 2024, 480 nightclubs closed in the UK, averaging two per week.
The decline has intensified this year, with 65 nightclubs closing down between December 2023 and June 2024 – equating to three per week.
Yorkshire was the region worst affected, with nightclub numbers falling by 45% since 2020. This was nearly matched by Lancashire and the south-west, which both lost 42%, and the central region and Wales, which both lost 41%. Nightclubs in the east of England fell by 39%.
London, the north-east, and the south and south-east fared the best, falling by 29%, 20% and 34% respectively.
Scotland also struggled, with venues falling by 34%.
Following the release of the news, the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) called for immediate government action, urging the chancellor to extend business rates relief in the upcoming autumn budget.
Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA, said: “The nightclub and dance music sector is facing an unprecedented crisis. Since June 2020, we’ve been losing two nightclubs every week, but in the past six months, this has escalated to three per week. This rapid decline is devastating for our economy, culture, and communities.
“Despite contributing millions in taxes, we are burdened with rising costs and a lack of essential public services. Late-night transport is unreliable, police presence is scarce, and venues are forced to spend on security and cleaning – services that should be publicly provided. Additionally, bureaucratic systems around licensing and planning are inconsistent and definitely not conducive to growth, weighing us down at every point.
“Our sector is treated like an afterthought, yet it supports jobs, tourism, and hospitality. These venues aren’t just places to dance; they are vital spaces for community and creativity. Without urgent government intervention, we risk losing a key part of the UK’s cultural identity in dance music. We need immediate action to prevent further closures. Long-term reform won’t matter if there are no venues left to benefit from it.”
Ahead of next month’s budget, the Wine & Spirit Trade Association has also called on the government for support, urging the chancellor to freeze alcohol duty.
This year has also presented a struggle for UK bar chains, which failed to report any sales growth over the past eight months.
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