Birmingham, 7 October 2025 — The West Midlands has launched a major initiative to protect and revitalise its night-time economy, a sector employing more than 120,000 people in hospitality alone. The newly formed Night-Time Economy Commission, chaired by Wolverhampton councillor Chris Burden, will bring together leading voices from hospitality, culture, and entertainment to shape a long-term strategy for the region.
A Cross-Sector Effort
The Commission includes representatives from breweries, pubs, restaurants, music venues, cultural institutions, and national industry bodies. Members will work alongside the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to identify the sector’s most pressing challenges and opportunities, reporting back to Mayor Richard Parker early next year with recommendations for a region-wide plan.
Mayor’s Vision
Mayor Parker stressed the importance of the initiative:
“The night-time economy is huge for us. Around a third of the West Midlands workforce is employed in the sector. That’s why it’s a top priority to back businesses, protect jobs, and make sure this sector doesn’t just survive, but thrives.”
He added that the Commission would unite “some of the best minds in the business” to ensure the region’s pubs, clubs, restaurants, and cultural venues remain vibrant long after dark.
Industry Leadership
The Commission features a diverse membership, including:
- Crissie Rushton, University of Wolverhampton at The Halls
- Alex Nicholson-Evans, Living for the Weekend
- Henry Poultney, Grace & James
- Dalvinder Dhillon, Dhillon’s Brewery
- John Barrett, CVOne
- Jack Brabant, Digbeth Dining Club
- Toni Grehan, She Creates and Variations
- Lyle Bignon, Night-Time Industries Association
- Jim Cathcart, UK Hospitality
- Roxy Bentley, Nationwide Caterers Association
- Sophie Asquith and Jay Taylor, Music Venue Trust
Chair Chris Burden said the Commission would build on existing local initiatives:
“This is such an important part of our region’s economy. We’re going to develop a positive vision for a region that is a thriving and safe place to work and socialise after dark.”
Challenges Ahead
The Commission’s work comes at a pivotal moment. While the sector continues to recover from the impact of Covid-19, it faces ongoing pressures from rising costs, staffing shortages, regulatory hurdles, and changing consumer behaviour.
By fostering collaboration between local authorities, regional leadership, and industry stakeholders, the initiative aims to deliver a blueprint for resilience — one that protects jobs, supports businesses, and breathes new life into high streets and town centres across the West Midlands.
Sources: Public Sector Executive, Express & Star.
