This initiative aims to assist pubs nationwide that are struggling due to the pandemic’s effects, rising costs, and other challenges.
Several south east London pubs, including the Gladstone Arms, the Pelton Arms, and the Old Ivy House, will take part.
These beloved establishments have set ambitious targets and are hosting events to attract visitors.
The Gladstone Arms aims to sell 100 pints and will host a gig with rock band Larry Sparkle at 8pm.
Siblings Megha and Gaurav Khanna, landlords of the Gladstone Arms, said: “With all the challenges independent pubs like ours are facing—rising costs and Londoners having less budget for going out—this kind of initiative is incredibly helpful in bringing people to discover places like ours, which they might not have otherwise.”
In Greenwich, the Pelton Arms has set a goal of 800 pints sold and will welcome the Jonases for a live performance, also at 8pm.
Landlord Geoff Keen said: “We are delighted to join this initiative—such a great way to make people aware of the challenges all independent pubs face.”
The Old Ivy House, aiming to sell 50 pints, will combine its efforts with a fundraiser for CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably).
Landlady Kate Davidson said: “Special events are an excellent way to attract people to visit pubs.
“Summer enjoys the benefits of international football tournaments and good weather, while the tail end of the year hosts numerous Christmas parties.
“January and February, until the Six Nations commences, can be painfully quiet.”
National efforts to protect pubs have become crucial as the number of pubs in the UK has plummeted from 40,617 in 2020 to 38,989 in 2024, with research suggesting there could be fewer than 1,000 pubs remaining by 2074 if the trend continues.
January, typically a quiet month for pubs, has become even harder due to a 30 per cent increase in Dry January participation in 2024 compared to 2023.
The campaign, led by the London Pub Explorer and the CityStack London Pub Collection, asks all participating pubs to set targets for pints sold on the day.
The hope is that patrons will rally behind these goals and support their local pubs.
Alistair Von Lion, the London Pub Explorer, said: “Once a pub closes, it’s usually gone forever, and publicans toil stoically to keep these bastions of British culture alive.
“We need to protect and support these local stalwarts, cherished by their communities, where people can come to break bread and unwind.”
The CityStack London Pub Collection will provide participating pubs with tools and assets to promote the event and create momentum.
Founder Alison Boutoille explained: “We aim to leverage this, alongside our voucher scheme dedicated to independent pubs, to help these establishments attract as many visitors as possible during this quieter time of year.
“We want this event to be owned by the independent pubs that participate, empowering them to create unique experiences that reflect their individual identities.”
With pubs like the Gladstone Arms, the Pelton Arms, and the Old Ivy House leading the charge, the initiative hopes to bring communities together to support their local pubs and help them weather the challenging months ahead.
