Half of Brits will avoid watching summer football games at the pub this year as late kick-offs and pricey pints take a toll on turnout.
A poll of 2,000 adults found 33 per cent expect to watch matches at home instead, with 16 per cent bemoaning the inconvenient time of matches.
For 15 per cent, the cost of a drink is keeping them away this year, while seven per cent are simply less engaged with the summer of football compared to previous years.
But with matches being hosted across North America, publicans could miss out on nearly £33 per customer, the average spend per game during the previous global tournament.
Although, of those who are planning to head out, the latest kick-off they would be willing to watch is around 9pm, meaning games kicking off later could be a no-go for many.
The research was commissioned by Simply Business to mark the launch of ‘The Best Seat in the House’, a campaign rallying the public to get behind their local pubs at a time they need it most.
It will see an installation at The Bricklayer’s Arms in Putney and, from 16th June, while inviting pub goers to make a pledge [https://www.simplybusiness.co.uk/campaign/the-best-seat-in-the-house/ ] to watch a match at their favourite independent pub, with the top-voted venue winning £5,000.
Former Arsenal and England midfielder Ray Parlour, who previously co-owned a pub, said: “Pubs and football go hand in hand.
“There’s nothing quite like being in your local, cheering on your team and celebrating with friends and strangers alike over a last-minute winner.
“I know first-hand what it takes to keep a pub going and right now landlords are fighting harder than ever just to keep the doors open.
“Alongside other small businesses, these aren't faceless organisations; they're people who've put everything into serving their communities and they need our support.”
“There is no better place to watch the football than your local. It is simply the best seat in the house.”
The research also found of those who visited pubs during the last iteration, 17 per cent expect to make fewer trips this summer.
Again, 63 per cent cited late kick-offs as a key deterrent, while 36 per cent are trying to cut back on spending on things like going out.
Work commitments are also getting in the way for 17 per cent, making it harder to catch matches in pubs.
Chris Walsh, landlord at the Bricklayer’s Arms, added: “For us, running a pub is about so much more than just pouring pints.
“Great independent pubs like ours are the absolute beating heart of their communities.
"There’s an unmatched magic when everyone gathers under one roof to cheer on a team and there's nowhere quite like the pub during a massive summer of football.
“The reality is that the hospitality industry is facing an incredibly tough period ahead.
"Initiatives like Simply Business’s 'Best Seat in the House' campaign are a lifeline, giving independent pubs a real boost right when they need it most.
“So, please go online and nominate your favourite pub - it would really mean the world.”
Overall, 42 per cent believe the late kick-offs will have a direct impact on pub footfall this summer.
Nearly a quarter (23 per cent) cited difficulty getting home as a barrier, while 14 per cent said unusual kick-off times could clash with parenting responsibilities.
Another 12 per cent believe fans may stay away due to concerns around midweek disruption.
In fact, 21 per cent have noticed fewer pubs in their area planning to show the football this summer, according to the survey carried out by OnePoll.
However, 41 per cent added if their team progresses deep into the tournament, they would be more inclined to head out and watch games at the pub.
Julie Fisher, UK CEO of Simply Business, said: “Independent pubs play a unique role in society, contributing enormously to the strength of both our local communities and economy.
“With publicans usually seeing a boost in footfall during international football tournaments, this summer's late kick offs will prove another challenge for owners operating in a difficult environment.
“Character, community, charm – like all small businesses, independent pubs offer a unique experience that should be cherished.
“That's why we're reminding the British public that, this summer, the 'best seat in the house' really is at your local.”
