Pubs report positive trading after Olympics

Greg Fernandes, deputy manager at Stonegate pub the Goose, reported an uplift in trade compared to before the Olympics.

“Recent events have had a major impact — daytime trade has doubled during these,” he said.

“The DJ night that we began during the Olympics is now the biggest one in Stratford. Our reputation has improved as we are now known as the Olympic site in the company.”

Janet Dooner, of Stratford’s Railway Tavern, agreed that the events in the park have helped trade, but said that overall it is “very quiet”.

However, she said that her letting rooms are seeing good business as international tourists come to visit the Olympic site.

“I have a reunion booked in for 200 of the performers who were in the opening and closing ceremonies, but I don’t think that’s going to happen every year,” said Dooner, who is also chair of Newham Pubwatch.

She added that she is unsure people moving into the new flats under construction will help her business.

Perry Allix, assistant manager at brewpub Tap East, has also seen reunions in the venue. He added that he has seen “fantastic” trade from builders.

“It has been fantastic because the builders are all over the place and they say the work will take at least three years, so it looks good from that point of view. We’re optimistic.”

Ed Turner, managing director of Young’s-owned Geronimo Inns, added that the company’s Stratford pub, the Cow, is doing very well.

“The whole area has changed into a destination,” he said.

“The Olympic legacy has lasted, but the park has shut down.

“I think the anniversary celebrations over the weekend will bring the Olympics back to the forefront of people’s minds.”

However, Fabio Diegas, supervisor at the Langthorne pub, is concerned about the impact of violent crime in the areas of Stratford away from the shopping centre and Olympic Park.

“This area is becoming a bit dangerous really.”