Scottish pubs revolt over Sky fees

Swingeing hikes in the cost of showing Sky Sports in pubs have prompted seven Scottish pubs to cancel their subscriptions in protest.

The seven pubs in Haddington, East Lothian, 18 miles east of Edinburgh, said the extra trade generated from showing Sky Sports did not cover the average 18% increase in subscription fees.

Kevin Cockburn, manager of the Tyneside Tavern, said the rises would add £85 to the £450 a month it already pays. Worse, Sky is asking for an additional £1,400 a year to show exclusive Scottish Premier League matches.

Cockburn said many of the pubs' customers have also cancelled their home subscriptions in support.

The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers warned earlier this year that the pub industry was reassessing the viability of screening Sky Sports after years of annual increases of about 20% (Caterer, 13 May, page 10).