The article features an interview with two pub landlords, Coby Morton of The Dolphin Inn in Shrewsbury and Jason Osborne of the Raven in Winchester. They discuss their experiences running pubs during a time when the industry is facing significant challenges due to changing consumer habits and increasing competition from chain restaurants.
Morton talks about how he has had to adapt his business model to appeal to younger customers, who are less likely to visit traditional pubs. He notes that this requires offering a more diverse range of food options, including vegetarian and vegan choices, as well as hosting events such as live music nights and board game evenings. Morton also emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere, with regulars becoming like family to him.
Osborne shares his own experiences, highlighting the challenges of finding new customers and maintaining a loyal customer base. He attributes this success to offering a unique experience for each patron, whether it's through live music or providing a space for socializing without being too loud.
Both landlords agree that happiness is key when working in hospitality. They advise others to maintain a positive attitude, greet every customer as if they were an old friend, and strive to make their patrons leave with a smile on their face.
Throughout the conversation, both Morton and Osborne stress the value of communal spaces like pubs for forming relationships and fostering community. The Dolphin Inn's role in hosting a couple's first date, wedding reception, and even their own "kissing booth" events demonstrates this point. Similarly, the Raven has seen couples meet at the pub while getting married.
While both landlords acknowledge that change is inevitable in the industry, they emphasize that pubs will always be an integral part of society as long as people want to socialize and form connections with others.
Overall, Morton and Osborne demonstrate a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, ensuring that their establishments remain vibrant community hubs despite challenges.
Morton talks about how he has had to adapt his business model to appeal to younger customers, who are less likely to visit traditional pubs. He notes that this requires offering a more diverse range of food options, including vegetarian and vegan choices, as well as hosting events such as live music nights and board game evenings. Morton also emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere, with regulars becoming like family to him.
Osborne shares his own experiences, highlighting the challenges of finding new customers and maintaining a loyal customer base. He attributes this success to offering a unique experience for each patron, whether it's through live music or providing a space for socializing without being too loud.
Both landlords agree that happiness is key when working in hospitality. They advise others to maintain a positive attitude, greet every customer as if they were an old friend, and strive to make their patrons leave with a smile on their face.
Throughout the conversation, both Morton and Osborne stress the value of communal spaces like pubs for forming relationships and fostering community. The Dolphin Inn's role in hosting a couple's first date, wedding reception, and even their own "kissing booth" events demonstrates this point. Similarly, the Raven has seen couples meet at the pub while getting married.
While both landlords acknowledge that change is inevitable in the industry, they emphasize that pubs will always be an integral part of society as long as people want to socialize and form connections with others.
Overall, Morton and Osborne demonstrate a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, ensuring that their establishments remain vibrant community hubs despite challenges.