Less big nights out at Adelaide bars
Small bars and clubs in Adelaide’s CBD are struggling as punters spend less money and have fewer big nights out under cost of living pressures.
Data from the City of Adelaide shows spending has been in decline at bars and clubs since April 2023.
Thanat Rattanakosit, who own three small bars and two restaurants with his family for the past 14 years said of the dire situation, “Just as things were going back to normal in terms of where they got rid of restrictions and stuff like that, there was a period where it was good because people were allowed back out again.
“I think as soon as the cost of living and the prices of everything went up, people are kind of more conservative now with what they’re spending and how they’re choosing to spend their money.
“I feel like we definitely need a Plan B for sure, whether that’s closing or selling but quite frankly, I see a lot of business on the same path as well and it’s everyone that’s impacted across the city.”
While there was temporary growth in June last year and in February this year due to the Fringe Festival, less people are heading into the city.
One casualty of the current downturn is LGBTQIA+ bar My Lover Cindi, which closed last week. Others that have had to shut their doors permanently include Enigma Bar, Confession at Port Adelaide, Edinburgh Castle, Fat Controller, Dog and Duck and Super California.
Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith noted the change in consumer behaviour when addressing the issue.
“Whilst there are the costs, pressures to the venues and the challenges there, the customer has changed and that’s one of the most challenging areas,” she said.
“Because young people are of course stressed by the cost of living pressures, but on top of that they’re drinking less, they’re going out later.”
Ms Lomax-Smith has called for change before more closures occur.
Jonathan Jackson, 15th May 2024
