Hospitality Outlets

Number of hospitality and catering outlets -
The number of UK hospitality and catering outlets dropped marginally in 2007 to 263,053 establishments, down from 263,657 the previous year.
The number of hotels and guesthouses fell by almost one percent during the year, with many reverting to residential or other business uses. There were also fewer pubs.
Nevertheless, the total number of meals served increased to 8.73 billion, up from 8.64 billion in 2006.
Food inflation (food represents 30% of operators’ costs) and the credit crunch had started to hit sales in restaurants and pubs by July.
The greater focus on food in many pubs responding to the smoking ban is believed to have added extra capacity that is 6% above current levels of consumer demand.
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These factors have favoured takeaway and fast-food outlets, along with strong mid-market brands and managed pubs.
The figures cover both the profit sector (which includes hotels, restaurants, quick-service outlets, pubs and leisure venues) and the cost sector comprising catering in business and industry, healthcare, education and Ministry of Defence sites.