Thinking about doing Dry January this year? But have you considered the impact? Looking after your health is so important and drinking responsibly is something we all support. But take a moment to consider what else your choice can mean for our local community and the hospitality industry we all love.

If local pubs aren’t supported, we risk losing them for good and the impact stretches far beyond just not being able to buy a pint. Your local pub is the hub of your community. Every beer you enjoy starts with malted barley (and sometimes speciality malts or grains) from farmers who rely on this trade. Then there are the people who produce the bottles, casks, labels, and pump clips. Distributors, whether independent agencies or breweries themselves, keep jobs going by getting beer to venues.

When beer reaches the pub, it supports landlords paying their rent, electric and heating bills. Bar and kitchen staff paying their own bills, and even local taxi drivers who get folks home safely. The whole supply chain and local economy feels the ripple effect.

So why not try Try January instead? Maybe you can swap stronger drinks for non-alcoholic or low alcohol options at your local, or pop in for a meal and a soft drink to show your support. Every visit counts towards keeping our pubs and the jobs and communities they sustain alive. Choosing low alcohol or alcohol-free beers supports pubs and breweries while giving your body a break.

Show your local pub you’re backing it this January!