If you’re an avid listener of The Archers, you may have been captivated by a recent storyline. The Bull, Ambridge’s long-standing village pub, has upset the locals! And all over a name change. Owners of The Bull recently announced that they were renaming the pub to The B at Ambridge, to update their image and attract new clientele. As experts at refurbishing pubs, we know there’s more to this than a name change! And it seems that Kenton and Jolene Archer did too. They’re hosting cocktail nights and business networking groups… But is it possible to do all this and keep the locals on board? The answer is yes!
Refurbishing Pubs and Keeping the Locals Happy:
Local pubs are a vital hub for communities. But local landscapes change, and that means that a pub needs to diversify too. Creating an environment which represents the local area and its history is essential if you’re trying to stay in touch with the residents on the doorstep.
Here are three tips to help you keep the locals on board if you’re refurbishing a pub:
Not all surprises are pleasant surprises:
Lillian Bellamy and Kenton and Jolene Archer planned a big announcement night in The Bull. All the locals gathered expecting a revelation that might include free drinks or new facilities that would benefit the locals. Instead, The B at Ambridge was sprung on them. Nobody was particularly happy; the community felt side-stepped. If you’re planning a refurbishment think about how you might get the locals on board through a period of consultation. Find out what’s important to your locals and what they would like to see when you re-open your doors. Perhaps local Mums would like to see a space that could host coffee mornings in the daytimes. Maybe local businesses do need a space to network. But you won’t find out unless you ask!
Don’t close your doors for too long:
When it comes to refurbishing pubs you want to fast-track things. Close your doors for too long and people will find another watering hole. That’s where we come in.
We’ve been involved in fast-track pub refurbishment for decades. So, we’re well versed in exactly how fast ‘fast-track’ needs to be. We’re also known for high-quality workmanship, and the need for speed must never compromise this.
We recently worked with a small independent pub in the middle of a shopping parade in Kenton. All works were completed at night over two weeks to minimise disruption. The pub stayed open the whole time.
Plan your opening night & invite the locals:
We do not doubt that new clientele will flock to your new-look pub but don’t forget your locals. They are the people who will keep trade ticking over in the deep mid-winter when nobody else is prepared to travel too far. So, they should be at the forefront of your mind when you plan your re-opening night party!
At Fairland Contractors, we know that refurbishing pubs is about more than a name change. Our services cover all areas of construction from initial groundworks to installing finishing bric-a-brac. Contact us to find out how we can help you keep the locals on board!
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