Newcastle emerges as the strongest-performing city overall, recording a +2.2% increase in licensed venues over the past year, followed by Chester (+2.0%), York (+0.9%), Glasgow (+0.2%) and Leeds (+0.2%). In contrast, major southern cities including London (-0.8%) and Birmingham (-2.9%) declined over the same period.
Traditional pubs continue to underpin this resilience. Northern pubs recorded +0.5% growth in like-for-like sales. Consumer loyalty is also stronger in the North, with 39% of consumers regularly visiting traditional drinking pubs compared to 35% in the South.
Data also highlighted regional differences in how consumers are responding to ongoing cost-of-living pressures. While concerns are more acute in the North, with 72% citing cost as a factor when deciding whether to go out compared to 61% in the South, Northern consumers are prioritising quality over quantity when they do spend. Celebrating special occasions and investing in higher-quality food and drink are key drivers, reinforcing the importance of experience-led venues.
Customer satisfaction levels further reflect this focus on quality. Overall satisfaction with experience quality stands at 87% in the North, compared with 82% in the South, with Northern venues outperforming on cleanliness, menu range and speed of service.
Chris Brazier, group event director for NRB26, said: “The North’s hospitality sector has always been built on strong community roots, genuine value and standout experiences, and this data proves just how powerful that combination remains. Despite continued economic pressures, Northern operators are finding ways to grow by focusing on quality, loyalty and creating places people genuinely want to return to. It’s a positive signal for the future of hospitality in the region.”
