CAMRA challenges tied pubs "scandal"

A couple of months back, I highlighted the continuing scandal of tied pubs and the Office of Fair Trading's astonishing decision not to investigate a system its own research indicates costs the average tied publican £20,000 per year.

On 22 December, the Campaign for Real Ale launched a legal challenge to the OFT's intransigence via the Competition Appeals Tribunal. However, it can only succeed with your backing.

CAMRA's chief executive, Mike Benner, announced this afternoon: "'We are today calling for pub goers to support CAMRA's campaign to secure a fair deal for consumers by donating to our campaign to ensure the beer tie works in a fair and competitive manner.

"'CAMRA has found that a lack of competition in the UK pub market is costing consumers £2.5 billion a year, as well as harming the pub-going experience through reduced quality and choice."

The lack of effective competition was a key reason why seven pubs are closing for good every day, he added, causing "irreparable damage" to local communities.

"'Regrettably, the OFT did not examine competition in local pub markets, which is why we have taken the decision to appeal. The OFT's assertion that consumers benefit from a good deal of competition and choice in the pub sector is in our view not supported by the available evidence.

"'CAMRA has pledged funds to the appeal process and is urging consumers to contribute to ensure our campaign stands the best chance of success.

"This is an historic opportunity for pub-goers to stand up to unfair conditions in the UK pub market and to assist the Office of Fair Trading in understanding the scale of harm to consumers."

You can learn more about CAMRA's appeal here.