Business is booming for Southampton pubs during Euros ahead of England quarter finals

Pubs in Southampton say the Euros have been good for business with fans flocking to the bars of the city centre to watch the Three Lions.

Gareth Southgate's men have made a spluttering start to their Euro 2024 campaign, progressing from Group C with a win and two draws, before a late equaliser from Jude Bellingham was necessary to avoid them being knocked out against Slovakia in the Last 16 on Sunday.

Despite fears that poor performances will keep punters away, pubs in Southampton are reporting the opposite.

Watering holes across the city are now looking to make good business come England’s quarter final game against Switzerland this Saturday.

Yates’ general manager, Charlie Balsdon, said: “Business has been great really compared to last year. England getting through is certainly giving us a hand with our pub, the Saturday game will be very helpful.

“Yesterday (England vs Slovakia) was very slow, we were worried, but it went from 0 to 100 really quick when Jude (Bellingham) equalised, and then at extra-time was the busiest the bar has ever been”

Balsdon added that a two-pint deal will be coming out for England’s game on Saturday.

Closer to the Royal Pier, James Egan, co-owner of the Titanic stated: “Business has been good, it’s our first major tournament after taking over in September, but it’s been going very well, and our new kitchen just opened up last week for the Euros, so we have a new menu coming out which is helping people get through it."

The 29-year-old added: “We are also having a new TV being put up which will be our third one. We have some space outside, but you can’t see the TVs from there but can eat and enjoy your drink in the sun if you’d like.

“We have 5 Coronas for £20 deal as well as other shot deals for everyone.”

Many pubs have not only received better business from the ongoing tournament, but also receiving better engagement with their customers.

Nikki Wilson, a bartender at the Red Lion said: “Business has improved a lot, and we see a lot of new different faces which is amazing. People are also staying for longer and that’s fantastic.”

Michael Ryder, supervisor at the Lion, praised the Euros for “keeping business alive” and how the tournament has helped the venue.

“Throughout the week there is normally around 10 people in," he told the Echo. "The Euros, being on twice a day is really helping us."