Mother’s Day is ‘bigger than Christmas’ for pubs

Such a figure is hardly surprising, since the majority of mums over the age of 35 consider a meal with their family on the day as the ideal gift, statistics claim.

While Mothering Sunday is a big pull for food-serving pubs, there are also seven other key dates for foodie pubs to take advantage of during the next couple of months (see box).

According to Unilever's spring guide, pubs can make the most out of the eight key dates by promoting the produce available during spring.

Menu ideas​

In March, ingredients such as sardines, mussels, spring lamb and spinach are at their best. While crab, oysters and rocket are at their peak in April, Unilever said. Wood pigeon, salmon and new potatoes all taste their best in May.

Last year, more than 77% of adults planned to visit a pub or restaurant during the three-day Easter bank holiday, according to figures from HospitalityGEM, which could reoccur.

Top tips to take advantage of the increase in customer pub visits in spring include putting on barbecues when the weather is dry; trial summer specials; ensure outdoor furniture is in good condition; and summer cocktails.

The guide can be found here​​