Learn from style bars
Traditional publicans used to practise a kind of inverse snobbery when it came to the "trendy bars" that started springing up on Britain's high streets a decade or so ago. It soon became clear, though, that these upmarket independent outlets were not only here to stay but that the pub trade could learn from them.
While the style bar might well continue to be defined by a certain fashion element in its design and operation, the higher standards and fresh ideas that the new wave of licensees introduced could be universally applicable.
Stroll around any town and city and you'll see their influence, not only on the high street, where the bigger chains have had to compete, but in the suburbs where many of the most successful community pubs are those which have tossed out the swirly carpets and velour banquettes for a younger, more rugged feel.
The fancy cocktails that set the style bar apart have been adopted in simpler forms by the mainstream as have shots and shooters, imported vodkas, premium gins and interesting rums.
Upmarket bars have even been able to teach pubs a thing or two about beer, pioneering the specialities - the genuine imports and white beers - that have become one of the few growth categories in the on-trade.
Even in the country, food-led houses have picked up on the trend as a way of combining quality with informality and developed the imaginative menus that earn them the "gastropub" tag.
The line between style bar and pub is increasingly blurred as the latter looks to move ahead and offer a point of difference in an increasingly competitive world, and there is plenty that pubs can still learn from bars without compromising their "pubness".
That's why publicans might consider a trip to this year's Bar.06 show, brought to you by Theme, The Publican's sister magazine for the style bar sector, a worthwhile day out.
Now in its seventh year, Bar.06 is well established as the living embodiment of the cutting edge of the style bar industry. It's the place where leading players meet to swap ideas and find fresh inspiration from more than 200 suppliers who take a stand at the exhibition.
Bar.06, which takes place at London's Earls Court Two on June 6 and 7, is also taking its educational role more seriously than ever, offering visitors talks, workshops and training sessions where the most famous names in the business will share their knowledge.
"The modern bar industry is still very young and, as it grows, education is key," explains event director Andy Bishop. "The UK now leads the way in this vibrant new business and Bar.06 aims to showcase as much talent as possible."
And this year's Bar show will have something of a celebratory feel, too, taking the opportunity to talk up all the industry has achieved in its short history.
"Most shows lack a firm identity, but that's not the case here," says Bar's creative consultant Aidan Keane. "Our sector has come in for some harsh criticisms of late, and this year we really want to use the show as a vehicle to reveal the pride and love for the business we are all involved in.
"While binge-drinking may hit the headlines in the Daily Mail, that is not relevant to our sector. Our industry is professional and cutting edge, and we want to scream and shout about it!"
The bar sector spans many disciplines and takes inspiration from the world of music, fashion and everyday culture, he adds. "Bar will be a symbol of Europe's elegance when it comes to the world of drink and design. As an export, the licensed trade has already overtaken fashion in terms of importance, and is hot on the heels of music. This is our year, our industry, our show," he says.
How to attend Bar.06
LOCATION
Earls Court Two, London
TIMES
Tuesday, June 6, 10am - 6pm
Wednesday, June 7, 10am - 5pm
HOW TO REGISTER
On the web: go to www.barshow.co.uk
On the phone: call 01923 690630
