Pub landlords in Scotland are reporting a decline in customer spending and visits, attributing the trend in part to the increasing use of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. The medications, which mimic a hormone to create a feeling of fullness, are leading patrons to order less food or dine out less frequently, according to a survey by the Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA).
Around 16% of surveyed operators believe that weight-loss drugs are contributing to fewer pub visits, while 22% noted that customers have become more discerning. Some landlords have observed patrons ordering from children's menus or opting for smaller portions, such as a single main course instead of a starter and main. Others report customers asking to share dishes.
"There's definitely a shift in customer behaviour," said Colin Wilkinson, the SLTA's managing director. "While we can’t say definitively that this trend is down to use of weight-loss drugs – it could also relate to cost-of-living pressures and people reining in their spending – many members believe that this medication is having an impact on their sales."
An estimated 300,000 people in Scotland are believed to be using these weight-loss drugs, with many paying considerable monthly sums for treatment not available on the NHS. The drugs work by stimulating the GLP-1 hormone, which signals satiety.
The SLTA's Summer On-Trade Market Insight Report highlights that challenging trading conditions persist, with 58% of outlets experiencing a decline. All surveyed outlets reported year-on-year cost increases, with 57% facing rises significantly above inflation.
Despite these challenges, the outlook for the remainder of the year shows some optimism. The report indicates that 61% of outlets expect growth or stability, and there has been a 9% decrease in the number of businesses considering closure compared to previous surveys. The World Cup provided a temporary boost to trade, but broader economic factors, including global conflicts, continue to impact consumer confidence and costs within the hospitality sector. The Commonwealth Games did not yield a similar positive effect on trade.
