Opinion - Jo Bruce, Editor

Food pubs' vital role

The next few years will see some fundamental changes in our industry, brought about by issues such as licensing reform, smoking and nutritional labelling.

But one thing that is unlikely to alter is the importance of food to a pub's turnover. Pub food has seen phenomenal growth in the last few years, both in terms of quality and quantity. According to Mintel research, it is now the second biggest sector in the eating-out market and looks set to grow even further. Pubs are the future of dining out in the UK.

As you will see in the PubChef Food Report, which starts on p39, pubs are predicting around 15% growth in food sales in the next year. Our survey also showed that if a smoking ban is imposed, nearly 60% of pubs would opt to be a food pub rather than allow smoking.

Pubs that are offering food need to ensure they are doing so at the highest possible standards.

Regional sourcing

According to our Food Report research, local sourcing was the trend that had the biggest influence on your food business in the last year.

New research by food and grocery think-tank IGD, also shows that seven out of 10 people want to buy local food. To help make pub chefs more aware of the commercial benefits of regional sourcing and the produce available, we have launched PubChef Live.

The first event was held earlier this month - with excellent feedback - and further events will take place during 2005, so make sure you don't miss out.

Jo Bruce

Editor, PubChef