New name for Northern Ireland trade group
Northern Ireland's leading pub trade body has been renamed in a bid to promote the industry's image.
The Federation of the Retail Licensed Trade (FRLT) will be known as Pubs of Ulster, in a move to reinforce the contribution of pubs to the hospitality, tourism and leisure sector.
Colin Neill, Pubs of Ulster chief executive, said: "We believe this is an important move to broaden the perception of the licensed trade beyond more than just a focus on alcohol.
"We hope to achieve an improved respect and recognition of the vital role that the pub trade plays in delivering significant economic contributions and a unique customer experience here."
The licensed trade now employs more than 35,000 people in Northern Ireland and contributes an estimated £1 billion to the local economy each year.
