Its first initiative will create nine flagship darts pubs around the country and install 500 Fosters sponsored darts zones each featuring two darts flights, a darts board, score cards, posters and strut cards.
In addition, Star Pubs is offering a Flight School branded darts package to its pubs to enable them to encourage casual players.
Eye-catching
This will contain point-of-sale material to be positioned next to darts boards displaying easy-to-follow instructions on how to play popular games like 501, Killer, and Around the World. Digital versions will also be available for customers.
Star Pubs retail director Cathy Olver said that many licensees are telling them that darts is “crucial” to their business, especially on traditionally quieter mid-week evenings, where it increases dwell time, boosts sales and encourages repeat visits.
“As Luke Littler continues to ignite interest in the game, the demographic of players is broadening, and more people of all ages are wanting to give it a go and learn how to play. It’s a great way to encourage socialising,” Olver said.
Extend benefits
“We already provide a darts offer to all our managed pubs where space allows. We are delighted to be extending the benefits to our leased and tenanted pubs with a tailored scheme that enhances the experience for established darts enthusiasts and encourages more casual players. Our darts scheme will bring the sport alive and provide a low-cost way for all our pubs to give their customers a competitive socialising experience.”
Darts is becoming an increasingly popular sport. The 2023 PDC World Championship Final attracted nearly five million viewers, making it the most-watched non-football event in Sky Sports history.
August 2024 saw the pub company introduce a free UK-wide online darts tournament for its leased and tenanted sites.
Last month, Star Pubs revealed it was investing £180,000 in a loyalty card roll out to help the operators of 190 Just Add Talent community and premium pubs to reward locals.
At the beginning of 2025, research carried out by FANZO found darts had shot up into the top 10 of sports most watched in pubs and bars.
