Customers say what they want to see in 2010
Licensees across the country will be looking to attract new customers and retain the ones they already have as trading continues to be tough this year.
A selection of customers in London have revealed what would bring them into the pub in 2010.
Name: Oscar James
Age: 44
Occupation: VT Engineer
Found in: The Slug and Lettuce, Southwark
What attracts you to a pub?
I need to like the clientele and feel relaxed. Sometimes I think 'would I bring my wife here?' I come here because the service is good and it's got a certain quality - it's comfortable and familiar.
Did you visit the pub on more or fewer occasions in 2009?
It went in peaks and troughs. Everyone is looking in their pockets, but people like to socialise. I think the smoking ban had a greater effect than the recession.
What will make you go more in 2010?
Those that survived this year well will have to lead the way. In pubs you meet people of character and you form friendships. I'm a social being, so I'll keep going more.
Name: Kevin Fitz-Simons
Age: 43
Occupation: Salesman
Found in: The George, London Bridge
What attracts you to a pub?
Well I guess you're looking for something special. This one has a National Trust sign, so we thought we'd have a look.
Did you visit the pub on more or fewer occasions in 2009?
Well I guess the recession hit most people so I probably went fewer times but I didn't really notice. I think pubs are a cheaper alternative to many other nights out.
What will make you go more in 2010?
Well I'm from California, where there is this new trend for microbreweries. Pubs brew their own special beers and if they're good they can make a lot of money. It could definitely work over here, there's a certain amount of it already.
Name: Ian Rice
Age: 22
Occupation: Parliamentary researcher
Found in: The Abbey, Kentish Town
What attracts you to a pub?
I like unpretentious pubs with a welcoming, community atmosphere. There has to be a reasonable selection of beers and ales at an affordable price. Drink and food promotions are great to get people through the door. I know the government dislike drink promotions but I'm a responsible adult and it's a personal decision.
Did you visit the pub on more or fewer occasions in 2009?
Well working in parliament means there are a few subsidised bars so definitely not fewer. I haven't really noticed less people in pubs either - though I only tend to go during peak hours.
What will make you go more in 2010?
The main reason I don't end up in a pub is work load. Sometimes the prices are frustrating but that doesn't change my drinking habits, I'll always keep going to pubs.
Name: Susannah Gore
Age: 23
Occupation: Charity worker
Found in: Monkey Chews, Chalk Farm
What attracts you to a pub?
A cosy, friendly and inviting atmosphere. I don't really like chain pubs, they lack individuality. Modern pubs can be nice, but when it comes to pubs I like them more traditional. I guess that drink deals help, but on a quiet night out its not so important.
What will make you go more in 2010?
Pubs need to make themselves more inviting. They need to do things that make you think 'that could be a really good night out.' If they put on theme nights, music or quizzes people won't feel they need to go elsewhere later in the night.
Why do you love pubs?
Well it's a staple of British life isn't it? Coming from a small village I know the importance of it for communities.
