Industry Professionals Decry Cancellation of Extra Bank Holiday in 2025

A recent announcement from Number 10 has confirmed that the proposed extra bank holiday in 2025 has been cancelled. Initially, there were speculations that an additional day off would be added to commemorate the conclusion of WWII, but this has been officially declared as not happening.

Leaders in the UK's hospitality industry have expressed their disappointment with the government's choice to abandon the extra bank holiday. They argue that such days are crucial for generating additional revenue in their sector.

Their sentiments mirror those from 2022, advocating for the permanent inclusion of an extra bank holiday to celebrate the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee. Martin Williams, a former figure in the M Restaurants and Gaucho group, has described the decision to cancel the 2025 holiday as "missed potential."

Williams stated: "The additional bank holiday would have been a vital stimulus for the hospitality sector amidst the economic challenges posed by the recent budget. Local pubs and independent eateries would have greatly benefited from it—a missed opportunity indeed."

A representative from UKHospitality told City AM: "Bank holidays are peak times when people in Britain prefer to dine out or take a mini-break, which naturally leads to an increase in sales for hospitality businesses. As the industry grapples with rising costs, high-demand periods like bank holidays, Easter, and summer vacations become even more significant for driving sales."

A spokesperson for the Campaign For Real Ale added: "Bank holidays are golden opportunities for the beer and pub sector. They offer an additional day of support for public houses, social clubs, and taprooms seeking to enhance their business."

"The pub industry continues to face financial hurdles, including soaring energy bills and escalating costs. CAMRA’s data indicates that pub enterprises are experiencing unprecedented turnover rates and are still confronting a severe decline in the number of licensees able to maintain their operations in the UK.

“Public houses are essential for community unity, offering inviting spaces for social engagement and aiding in the fight against loneliness. They remain central to our neighborhoods, and bank holidays are an excellent occasion for people to gather at their local pub to enjoy a pint with loved ones.”

The economic impact of additional bank holidays is significant, with most of the private sector ceasing operations for an extra day. Studies suggest that an extra bank holiday could cost the UK economy approximately £2.4 billion.

A spokesperson for Number 10 remarked: "The 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day will be monumental occasions for our nation, as we unite to honor the memories of those who served and the legacy they have left us.

"We are dedicated to commemorating these significant national events with the appropriate respect, which is why we have allocated over £10 million for events to mark these anniversaries.”