The CGA Fourth Business Confidence Survey has revealed that only 36% of pub, bar and restaurant groups are optimistic about the market when looking towards the next 12 months, a fall of 11% compared to the previous poll which took place in May.
The poll also revealed a soft Brexit, which maintains access to the single market and customs union while facilitating free movement, is the preferred course for the country to take among industry leaders.
Out of other potential outcomes a hard Brexit, a no-deal scenario and the Chequers plan all failed to gain more than 10% of support from respondents.
The poll was based on responses from more than 130 leading figures from the industry, working at CEO, MD, chairman, board and senior management levels and revealed that 69% of those polled said they think the nation should vote again on the final deal in a second referendum.
The poll also questioned the steps business leaders were taking to prepare for the move and found that 73% have invested in staff training and retention, while 27% have looked to local food and drink suppliers.
Nearly a third of leaders – 31% – still consider their business to be under-prepared, or not prepared at all, for Brexit.
UKHospitality chief executive, Kate Nicholls, responded to the findings and said: “There are understandably plenty of concerns from employers about the uncertainty brought about by Brexit. But there is plenty that we, as a sector can be doing to help clear up some of this uncertainty right now. We should remember that all EU staff members currently here, and any that arrive before the end of 2020 are entitled to remain.
“There is more that the government can to do hammer home this positive message, but we need to be highlighting it as well. Planning for the future post-Brexit means communicating this message now.”