Darkest Before the Dawn (2023)
Our Manifesto for the Night Time Economy 2024
From a practical standpoint, the Night Time Economy plays a pivotal role in the UK’s economic landscape. According to data from the NTIA, it contributes a staggering £93.7 billion to the UK economy and supports nearly three million jobs. It’s a major employer of young people, a significant draw for tourists, and a compelling reason for businesses to invest in the UK.
However, the Night Time Economy finds itself in a precarious state. Recent statistics are cause for concern. In the first half of 2023, two pubs closed every day (Altus), while nightclubs shuttered at a rate of two per week over the last year, with 31% of the sector vanishing in the past three years (NTIA). Grassroots music venues are disappearing at a rate of two per week (Music Venues Trust), and five restaurants are closing their doors daily (Price Bailey).
These numbers are just part of a broader dataset illustrating the decline, particularly in the case of pubs, nightclubs, music venues, and LGBT venues.
It’s time for the Government to step up and support the sector, much like it does for other vital industries. This isn’t a call to abandon reasonable regulation but rather to acknowledge the Night Time Economy as a social good worthy of protection in the face of profound challenges.
Night Time Industries Association
“Darkest Before the Dawn,” penned by Philip Kolvin, is more than just a manifesto; it is a visionary blueprint for revitalizing and advancing UK’s Night Time Economy.
Report by:
- Philip Kolvin KC — Barrister, 11KBW
- Michael Kill, CEO — Night Time Industries Association
- Sacha Lord
- Silvana Kill