It’s been an uneasy period for UK nightlife – back in February, a report claimed that club venues will be extinct by 2030. Now, a new report from the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has revealed a total of five club closures each week in 2024 so far, confirming our suspicions.

The report cites a “dramatic decline” in venue numbers, with 67 nighcubs closing their doors between the months of January and April, which averages five clubs each week. Out of the venues shuttering their doors, 48 have been independent venues, which the organisation says is down to rising rents and the cost-of-living crisis. 

NTIA CEO Michael Kill has, “expressed profound dismay over these figures, emphasising the cultural and social significance of nightclubs as integral components of the UK’s nightlife.” He added: “Without immediate intervention and meaningful support from policymakers, we risk irreparable damage to our cultural heritage and the fabric of our communities.”

It follows earlier claims made back in March 2023, when the association accused the UK government of “intentionally” closing down nightclubs and venues across the country, as it saw the nightlife sector as “a burden on policing and local government”. 

Nevertheless, the report also noted an emphasis on experience and setting as crucial factos in Gen Z’s socialising preferences, as well as the importance of social media in deciding what venue to choose. Elsewhere, pubs and bars have remained strong this year with 60 per cent of participants saying that it’s the main way they socialise. 

As the roll-out of AI continues to shape the music industry, the report urges the support of “human artistry through strong copyright standards and protections for image and personality of creators”. “AI will create significant challenges for artists and management (alongside established issues with low / negligible streaming fees and algorithms favouring existing artists,” it says, noting the integration of AI, VR and multi-sensory experiences will be “key to tempting out younger audiences who have grown up on this at home and at school”.