Smoking policies in UK pubs: a business opportunity?

Abstract

The article considers the changes in the structure of the UK pub sector and the falling pattern of trade which occurred at the same time. This meant that the competition within the industry is intense. The major pub‐owning companies enjoy many economies of scale over their independent rivals. These have been considered briefly. Many of the smaller outlets have responded by adapting their pubs to meet the varying requirements of their customers. The demand for pubs with smoke‐free air and the evidence that this will increase trade have been investigated. The threat of legislation has led the industry to establish a voluntary scheme. Reports on its effectiveness have been studied, and a small local study undertaken. It appears that the big companies are swifter than their smaller rivals at taking advantage of this market demand.

Citation

Pratten, J.D. (2003), "Smoking policies in UK pubs: a business opportunity?", International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, Vol. 15 No. 2, pp. 120-125. https://doi.org/10.1108/09596110310462977