Calling all pub landlords! Are you prepared to get the most out of the 2018 FIFA world cup?

Its not just about the Three Lions, England fans are first and foremost devoted football fans, and they’ll be more than content watching Morocco vs. Iran. But with so much competition and so many pub/bar options for customers to choose from, how do you make your joint boast the best pint in town?

Screen size

Undoubtedly one of the deciding factors for roaming football fans is your screen. LCD, plasma or an overhead projector. The bigger, the better. Customers want HD or UHD functions. All games are broadcast on BBC and ITV, so this shouldn’t be a problem.

Opening times

An obvious and simple one. This time around, the games kick off between 11am and 7pm and there are up to 4 games televised per day. Ensure you’re able to show as many games as possible. Consider employing temporary staff or increasing staff hours if necessary to maintain the high-quality service. It may be helpful to ask staff in advance not to book holidays around this period, if it can be helped, in order to have plenty of help on call.

Food and drink

One of the deal-breakers of any pub or bar, a vast array of food and drink on offer could entice customers time and time again, even after England crash out and the tournament is done and dusted. Why not try mixing things up a little by creating football-inspired drinks? Or by reducing the cost of spirits that resonate with the countries that are playing (Gin=England, Tequila=Mexico etc.). If not, then even renaming some of your more traditional ales may suffice.

Staff

Pub-going football fans can be a funny bunch and they often love a good chinwag. Ensure your staff are up to scratch with teams, tournament format, fixtures and star players to keep the crowd happy.

Space

Consider where you’ll place the TV(s) and tables carefully. Can you make extra space for those punters turning up late? If there are no seats available, customers may well go elsewhere. Try to space-save as much as possible to capitalise on the grandest of sporting events.

Lighting

Lighting plays a key part in the success of a pub, especially when football is on. Ensure the screens don’t suffer from sun glare to keep your customers glued to the screen.

Price

Something that’s always a juggling ball with pub landlords is price competition. You don’t want to sell yourself short or price yourself out of the market. Stake out what other pubs are doing and, using promotional offers, aim to be as competitive as possible.

Promotional offers

With so much competition, your closest rivals are bound to do anything they can to get customers through their doors, including offering free drinks, competitions, football quizzes, and more. Having customers guess the correct score for a prize could help bring in the punters.

Atmosphere

If your clientele is a rowdy bunch, will this interfere with your usual business? If its too quiet, people might be put off and go elsewhere. Finding that balance is difficult , but its why you’re a landlord, right?

One more thing…

Remember too, that if customers are impressed with your place, they’re likely to come back. And given there are so many games on, you could be guaranteed a successful World Cup campaign for your business, even if England perform badly.

Of course, early exit misery for England seems forever likely. With it comes added emotions and, potentially, some trouble. You should ensure your premises has an appropriate and dedicated cover to protect you and your business. If not, then don’t delay, give us a call on 0191 482 1219 or visit our website and request a quote!

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