Pub landlords diversify by offering post office and foreign exchange services

2nd November 2009, 11:22am

New research out today shows that quirky stories of pubs offering extra services such as post office facilities and foreign exchange bureaus are becoming more commonplace as licensees look to bolster falling beer sales.

The 'Licensed Hospitality 2009 – A Labour Market Review of the Pubs, Bars and Nightclubs Industry' report – produced by People 1st in partnership with the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII)1 – found that over the past 12 months, more publicans have been diversifying into new areas.

Whilst many have added extensive food offers, accommodation, post office facilities, and hosting community groups to their repertoire of customer services, others provide more unusual offerings.

This is supported by a recent poll amongst BII members some of whom offer camping facilities, secure wetsuit and surfboard drying areas, and foreign exchange facilities.

94% of respondents said that they had tried out new ideas for their businesses in the last 12 months, with a further 6% planning to do so shortly.

84% had invested up to £5,000 in introducing new ideas. Over half (52%) of respondents expected a return on their investment within six months with a further third (30%) expecting dividends within a year.

Brian Wisdom, chief executive of People 1st said: "Whilst this has been a challenging year for the licensed hospitality industry, along with other industries, the report clearly highlights that those who innovate, diversify and match their offer to customer demand can do well. In this brave new world, more of the same is not always the best option.

"Businesses that will be best placed to leverage any opportunities are those who diversify, improve their marketing and continue to train and invest in their staff."

Related Articles:

• 16 Nov 2009 - People 1st announce employer masterclasses in customer services
• 02 Nov 2009 - Is the hospitality industry struggling to recruit the right staff?
• 11 Sep 2009 - Local pubs join forces to celebrate British Food Fortnight
• 22 Jun 2009 - Lack of affordable housing fuelling mass closures of village pubs
• 23 Apr 2009 - Brits swap pub garden for their own
• 20 Apr 2009 - Pub helps with hunt for a hero
• 28 Jan 2009 - People are still devoted to their local pub

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