The Publican's 30th Birthday: Anthony Fuller
Anthony Fuller, chairman of Fuller, Smith & Turner, helps mark The Publican Newspaper's 30th Birthday.
- What were you doing 30 years ago?
I was the estates director at Fuller's, with responsibility for all repair, maintenance and capital projects for the company. It was a difficult time, as we were considering our future in the light of the creation of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). We were on the verge of moving out to Heathrow, building a new brewery and focusing on keg bitter - thankfully, and mainly due to CAMRA, we decided against it.
What has been the biggest change in the pub industry in the past 30 years?
Without doubt the creation of the Beer Orders. This has completely changed the face of the pub industry.
Which individual has had the biggest impact on the pub trade in the past 30 years?
I would have to say Lord Young of Graffham. When he said of the MMC report into the brewing industry, "I am minded to accept the recommendations", he changed the British pub overnight
What are the biggest challenges facing the industry over the next 30 years?
The first is the impact of a smoking ban. The second is the increased buying power of the major pub companies - I think this will have a similar effect on the pub trade to that that the supermarkets have had on small corner shops
When did you first read a copy of The Publican?
On the day it came out of course!
Do you have a message for us on our 30th birthday?
Congratulations on 30 great years - The Publican revolutionised the trade press for our industry, and has been a great vehicle as the public face of the pub trade.
