Pubs could enjoy a £3m boost if opening hours are extended for Scotland’s late-night World Cup matches next summer, according to industry leaders.
The Scottish Beer and Pub Association is urging licensing boards to approve temporary extensions so fans can watch 23:00 and 02:00 kick-offs as Scotland return to the tournament for the first time in 28 years.
Senior policy manager Paul Togneri said the World Cup was a “once-in-a-generation” event and warned that potential economic gains were “at risk” due to varied licensing rules across the country.
He added: “We need licensing boards to show flexibility and allow pubs to open their doors, that’s why we’re calling for temporary licensing statements for the whole of the tournament.”
He said fans would “rightly want to come together and celebrate” and urged authorities to “give our pubs a chance to benefit from this incredible occasion. No pubs, no party.”
Health Secretary Neil Gray said decisions on opening hours were for local authorities, but stressed that government would work with them to “give everyone the opportunity to enjoy and celebrate” Scotland’s long-awaited return to the World Cup.
He added ministers would try to ensure supporters “are able to enjoy the celebration as Scotland get out of the group of death with Brazil, Morocco and Haiti.”