What do we look for in a pub?

Ben TobinYouGov PR Manager
June 29, 2015, 5:00 AM GMT+0

A new YouGov Report - Pub Food and Drink 2015 – explores usage of pubs, the eating and drinking habits of customers and what people look for in a pub, with a good atmosphere and value for money food proving to be the most important factors.

Running a pub that will please everyone is a difficult task. YouGov research indicates that having a good atmosphere is one of the most important factors for people choosing a pub, as selected by 56%. Types of pub that are most-likely expected to have a good atmosphere are country or village pubs (44%) or independent pubs (39%).

Food is a vital element to get right too. Over half (56%) said that the price of food was an important factor when choosing a pub. The range of said food is also important (51%), while high quality cooking is chosen by 48%.

How presentable the pub is can be a make or break factor for some. 70% say a poor standard of cleanliness would act as a detriment to visiting a pub or returning to it. Bad toilets are also an issue for many (64%).

Many bemoan how the pub trade has changed over the years, as over a third (35%) say there are not enough traditional pubs, while 34% say that there are too many chain pubs and bars that don’t have individuality and character. The re-emergence of real ale and craft beer is underlined by the fact that 17% say this is an important factor when choosing which pub to visit.

YouGov Reports Associate Director Tom Rees said; “The wide spectrum of factors that influence pub visitors shows how difficult it is to achieve the right mix. Losing individuality and charm while looking to achieve all attractive qualities may well be counter-productive in the end. However, when pubs can achieve the triumvirate of good atmosphere, affordable food and drink and a presentable and clean premises, it gives them a good chance of success.”

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