Brett Barton
Brett's recent articles
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12th February
Christmas Spirits
18th December 2008 09:59
Although Christmas is coming it seems people are more likely to be staying in then going out to enjoy the festivities, which is proving bad news for pubs and bars. Hit by the credit crunch and the smoking ban 36 are already shutting each week and a national newspaper recently reported that in the next four years as many as 6,000 more face closure, including working men’s, social clubs and nightclubs.
We have recently handled the closure of two high profile bars, which were well established, within Leamington Spa. But in reality, and any town that has an over supply of bars and pubs will find that more will be closing in the coming months and I think Leamington fits that pattern.
It is very hard to thrive in a crowded market whatever the sector but especially in food and beverage. It is essential that bars make the most of every opportunity to win business, whether that involves widening their appeal, looking for new markets or changing their offer.
There are bars and restaurants in Leamington which have thrived over many years but they have maintained their quality and sometimes had to change with the times. It takes time for the leisure trade to pick up at the end of any dip and I can easily see this downturn lasting for the next 18 months to two years.
Maybe people will start to take a leaf out of a village pub in Norfolk who are currently getting into the spirit of Christmas by exchanging home-grown produce for beer and pub meals.
Whatever your plans for the festive season, may I take this opportunity to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
