Scottish pubs report boost in business as referendum nears

Some are reporting more than a 20% increase in business year on year, with many Scots choosing pubs as a venue for debate while others prop up the bar as an alternative to the 24-hour rolling media coverage.

Pubs have also become the most popular back-drop for news coverage as journalists seek out fertile ground for opinions.

In Edinburgh, the Devil’s Advocate bar just off the Royal Mile has encouraged debate, even inviting Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) to take part in a discussion group with customers.

“The referendum has definitely been a spark for more business,” said owner Stuart McCluskey. “We promoted a social discussion in our bar and it was an instant sell out. In fact, we had a waiting list for tickets.”

Positive​

The Bridge Inn at Ratho, regional winner for Best Food at the Great British Pub Awards, is another success story, with a 22% increase in the number of customers through the door in September as opposed to the same period last year with sales also up by 24%.

“The Scottish referendum has certainly had a positive effect on our business,” said owner Graham Bucknall. “In the last two weeks we have seen an increase in the number of people coming into our establishment, however in our experience it’s not to engage in the debate rather to escape from all things related to the independence vote.”

Lynn Adams, proprietor of The George Bar, Campbell Street in Hamilton held an Aye, Naw, Mybbee Real Ale Festival last weekend, where three ales have been named ‘Aye’, ‘Naw’ and ‘Mybbee’, which she says has drawn a lot of interest in the bar. She said: “People should use the referendum to their advantage. It’s been fantastic for my business.  I see it as a great opportunity to engage with new customers as well as to put on something different for my locals.” 

The chief Executive of the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, Paul Waterson, agreed the referendum had been good for business. 

Social network​

He said: “Scotland’s licensed trade premises provide the original social network and there has been no truer statement than in the run up to the referendum as people chose to engage, or not, in debate with each other in their locals.  The pub is the heart of many communities and holds a vital role in the economy, therefore it feels fitting that the licensed trade plays its part in people’s decision making process in Scotland’s future.”

Brigid Simmonds, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association said: “Scotland’s pubs really have been right at the heart of the conversation, when it comes to the big issues in the referendum. It’s a unique occasion that has boosted trade, and I hope after Thursday, all shades of opinion will join together again in the pub.”

Several pubs and bars have applied for special license extensions tomorrow night to allow customers to watch the results as they start to come in.