Olympics: Pubs must check suppliers and travel hotspots
Speaking at the British Beer and Pub Association’s (BBPA) Olympics Logistics Summit in London, Dan Everson freight manager at Transport for London (TfL) explained that some companies outside of London have not been planning for the Games.
He said that publicans and their suppliers should also keep a close eye on traffic hotspot areas, which will change everyday in accordance with the events on that day.
“The detailed road hotspot maps are available for each day of the Games until the end of the Paralympics, and we urge you to look at them. It will show how everything will change throughout the Games,” said Everson. “Your plans or solutions that may work on day one, will probably not work on day four for example.”
The road maps are available on www.tfl.gov.uk. There will also be daily bulletins at 5am everyday during the Games on the day ahead; and TfL is setting up a free online freight journey planner.
BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: “The Olympics are a golden opportunity for the UK’s pubs. We must work together to overcome the inevitable difficulties, and maximise the potential for increased trade, ensuring that all of our customers receive the high level of service they expect from our pubs.
“It is hugely important that pubs do not run dry and beer can be properly distributed despite road closures for Olympic lanes and local roads.”
In a message of support to the event, London Mayor Boris Johnson added: “London is gearing up for one of the most amazing summers this city has ever seen. The capital’s pubs and restaurants have a huge part to play in making sure the millions of visitors and Londoners heading out to enjoy themselves have a fantastic time throughout the Games.
“The industry also has a great opportunity to benefit from this unique opportunity so I’m delighted to see them thinking ahead and preparing for the excitement and challenges the summer will bring.
"By working together with London councils and Transport for London they can make plans now that will keep their tills rolling and their customers coming back for more.”
