The Scottish Beer and Pub Association (SBPA) is urging decision makers to support extension to licensing hours to ensure fans can enjoy next year’s historic World Cup matches in their local pubs.
The current licensing regulations restrict pubs in most parts of the country from operating beyond 1am, which could mean fans miss key games likely to kick off at 11pm and 2am.
Pubs may also miss out on a significant economic injection, with the SBPA predicting that next summer’s World Cup could give Scotland’s pubs a £15 million boost at a time when the sector faces growing pressures.
The UK Government has this week launched a consultation to consider allowing all licensed premises to stay open later, and SBPA is hoping the Scottish Government will show encouragement for similar extensions in Scotland.
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Commenting, Paul Togneri of the Scottish Beer and Pub Association, said: "This is the first time in nearly 30 years Scotland have qualified for the World Cup, and if you’re not making it to North America, there’s nowhere better for fans to cheer on Steve Clarke’s men than in the local pub.
"We urge local licensing boards to adopt a pragmatic approach to license applications for extended opening hours next summer by implementing temporary policy statements for the duration of the tournament to make this a summer to remember for the country.
“The tournament should bring a massive boost to the industry, with as many as an extra 3 million pints old, representing an increase of £15m to the sector at a much-needed time.
"The Scottish Government should also be encouraging the local licensing boards to support our pubs and grant relaxations”.
A Scottish Government Spokesperson said: “The Scotland squad will have the whole of the country behind them when the World Cup kicks off next June.
“While any extension to licensing hours would ultimately be for Scottish Independent Licensing Boards and local councils to decide, we will be working with local authorities, the Scottish Football Association and others to maximise opportunities to watch the games.”
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