Stonegate group has joined forces with Heineken UK to commission research which determined that pubs and bars demonstrating their inclusivity are more likely to be visited by the majority of the population.
The data showed that around 60% of people are more likely to visit pubs that are inclusive, with this number jumping to 76% for people who identify as LGBTQIA+, 82% for people who have accessibility needs and 73% for people from ethnic minorities.
It also revealed that discrimination still takes place, with 45% of LGBTQIA+ people having experienced some kind of discrimination, and 34% not feeling able to be their true selves in a pub or bar for fear of discrimination.
The partnership decided that because pubs, bars and venues have always been a place for the LGBTQIA+ community to come together, it wants to celebrate these venues and the amazing people who work in them.
The partnership will host an LGBTQIA+ inclusive event for the hospitality industry which aims to facilitate discussions and share best practice on how pubs and bars can continue to be more inclusive.
The survey concluded that the most common reason people visit a pub or bar is to relax and meet with friends, which highlights the need for hospitality venues to provide a welcoming environment. It also emphasised some simple measures venues can put in place to demonstrate this – from window stickers to social media accounts which reflect inclusivity.
Will Rice, interim on-trade sales director for Heineken UK said, “Pubs and bars are so important to the fabric of UK society, and it’s so important that people feel comfortable and welcomed in their surroundings.”
He added that it is important that hospitality as an industry builds on its momentum and can “continue to make pubs and bars a safe destination.”
Liam Martyn, area manager at Stonegate Group said, “It’s not that long ago that ‘gay pubs’ were almost underground. People would have to slip discreetly into them, just to feel some sense of belonging.”
“I’m so happy to see that has changed so much – looking around Soho now, and many other similar areas of cities across the country, the area is vibrant, full of love and fun, and there is definitely a sense of belonging from all people, not just the LGBTQIA+ community.”
Sarah Miller, business unit director at Stonegate added that the purpose of the event was to “bring people together, learn and share ideas”, so that pubs and bars can be inclusive all year round, not just during Pride month.
“We also recognise that people working in LGBTQIA+ bars are usually busy working during Pride, and we wanted to put on an event to both thank and celebrate with them” she added.
