Nights out at clubs are going to become "considerably more expensive" later this year, according to the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA).

The group has warned that there is not much more that clubs and bars can do except to pass on rising costs of food and drink, higher wages for staff and an end to Government support measures onto their customers.

In its latest survey of 198 nightlife operators, it revealed they saw a 26% jump in the cost of running their businesses last year.

Nightclubs, bars, casinos and companies in the supply chain said this included an 18% rise in the cost of stock, including food and drink.

Meanwhile, workforce costs have also leapt 18%, insurance costs have increased by 31% following pandemic disruption and utility bills have risen 29%.

Bournemouth Echo: Clubs and bars are facing steep costs (Canva)Clubs and bars are facing steep costs (Canva)

Michael Kill, chief executive officer of the NTIA, said: “It is unfortunately the case that when you see enormous cost increases of the kind we have felt in our sector, for the vast majority of businesses there is little else they can do other than pass these on to consumers

“Sadly, what this will mean is people’s well-earned nights out being made considerably more expensive, just when they are themselves struggling with their own cost of living and trying to decide which monthly expenses they can do without.”

The warning comes as customers also face jumps in energy costs and rising food bills amid the continued cost of living crisis.