Marston's tenants divided over smoking ban
29 August, 2007
New research reveals some positives from the legislation
Only a quarter of Marston’s Pub Company tenants believe the smoking ban will have a positive impact on business, according to new research.
Another quarter of the 100 surveyed believe it will make no difference while 25 per cent are convinced it will have a negative impact on their pub.
The statistics, which were collated as part of an ongoing research programme for the pubco, also saw some positives from the ban with food sales increasing.
Andrew Cooney, marketing and development director, said: “There’s no doubt the industry has been under so much pressure during recent years – around 40 per cent of those taking part said they felt the competition for customers had increased significantly over a 12 month period – which means people are event more apprehensive about change.
“However on a positive not nearly 40 per cent were recording a noticeable uplift in food sales and almost 50 per cent were planning to develop and extend this side of their business.”
The research also revealed that Marston’s scored highly on logistics and technical services with the majority rating delivery reliability, customer services and technical support as excellent or good. Of key concern was the speed and quality of premises repairs and maintenance.