Top tips for licensees - maximise your success for the summer

Wednesday, 08 June 2016

With people expected to flock to the pub to watch the world’s biggest sporting events, the unique sense of camaraderie amongst pub-goers makes it one of the most enjoyable times of the year to visit your local.

To drive business to your venue during the summer months, take a look at CPL’s top 5 tips to ensure you’re maximising your chances of success.

1. Advertise your events.

Summer 2016 is set to be dominated by sporting events in June, July and August. If you hold a TV licence for sports channels, make sure your customers know what you’re showing! Start advertising on signs, posters, social media and your website. Publicans love a tipple whilst watching their sport. Better yet, they love a place to watch it where the atmosphere is buzzing.

2. Train your staff

If customers don't have a good experience at your pub, they won't return in a hurry. Training your staff is key to providing customers with the best service. Do they know how to change a barrel? Are they trained in food safety? Do you have enough Personal Licence Holders? They are all major factors in the successful running of any licensed premises – especially when you’re expecting an influx of customers for the busy summer ahead.

3. Utilise social media

Although social media has already been mentioned, the importance of using these platforms should not be understated. 59% of the population actively use social media in the UK – that’s 38 million people. You may already have a social media presence, but does your pub post regularly? Produce good, responsive content for these dynamic platforms? It can be the catalyst to drive sales in your premises. If you’re not sure where to start, CPL Training has recently launched face-to-face Social Media courses – specifically for business use.

4. Make the most of your outdoor space

Before deciding what to do with your outdoor areas, make sure you check the conditions of your premises licence or consider obtaining a temporary events notice. Whether it’s varnishing the old picnic tables or setting up an outdoor bar, it’s important to utilise every last inch of your exterior space. If you’re broadcasting the big sporting events, give customers a reason to stay after it ends – good result or not. Live entertainment, BBQs or even something just as simple as a pool table or table tennis will keep the bar busy until last orders.

5. Revamp your food and drink menu

Adding a summer vibe to your food and drink menu is always a good motive to attract customers. The prospect of sipping a cosmopolitan or tucking into a barbequed rib-eye is very appealing to many pub-goers. If that isn’t your cup of tea, then consider refreshing your Sunday menu. The great Sunday roast has always been a pub favourite, but the summer often sees a demand for more adventurous dishes. It can often create a buzz around your site – it’s worth a thought!