ALMOST two thirds of Star Pubs & Bars lessees who attended the pubco’s annual licensee forum last month feel ‘upbeat’ about 2018, according to the company.
Of the 40 lessees who attended the forum, 59% said they felt positive about their own business in the year ahead, but with rising inflation, wish to see further support securing additional food discounts.
Over half (53%) felt local community and charity links remain important to business growth – with 18% wishing to make this part of their future business plan. And almost half (48%) saw developing activities and events to attract younger clientele as a ‘key’ opportunity to grow their business; other growth avenues highlighted included premium drinks ranges (31%) and social media (27%).
Lawson Mountstevens of Star Pubs & Bars said the survey results are “encouraging”, adding that the forum is “an important opportunity to get feedback about the support we provide and to hear first-hand about the opportunities and issues the pub trade is facing”.
