With uncertainty in the air around how and when pubs are likely to be allowed to open and under what rules, one thing is definitely certain - technology will play a huge part in kick-starting the return to business.
Social distancing may force operators to re-programme post-lockdown pubs to accommodate new consumer behaviour – but which tech innovations can help them push the right buttons?
By Sam Ulph, founder and CEO of e-commerce tech company StarStock
Reinventing your business is one thing – doing it in the space of a week is another, especially in the middle of a global crisis ravaging your industry.
A former licensee has received a community award from the Prime Minister for hosting an online pub quiz to raise money for charity, which featured famous celebrities including Stephen Fry.
Pubs and the wider hospitality industry will continue to need financial support if they are allowed to reopen with social distancing, according to one industry supplier.
The Craft Union Pub Company has launched an online community to support its publicans and help them create virtual pub events for their customers and staff.
With publicans unable to speak to customers directly during the Covid-19 shutdown, digital experts from Molson Coors and communications agency Jam outline why it’s important for pubs to be on the same social media page.
Diners who make reservations and don’t turn up are not a new issue for the trade but there are a multitude of ways operators can help overcome this issue.
Changing customer demands have given the back bar an increasingly prominent role, with a variety of new services available to provide an effective operation.