M&C Report talks to William Robinson, joint managing director of Frederic Robinsons, the Cheshire-based brewer and pub operator, about his top priority, how much his business has changed to combat the recession and the best piece of advice he has received.
What’s the most important action the industry can take to encourage the consumer? “Ensure that pubs remain relevant by way of their retail offer and they also need to ensure that they remain engaged and a part of their local communities.”
What single action could Government make that would make a difference? “Government has now begun to recognise the importance of the pub as part of the community providing a safe and controlled drinking environment and also the wide value that the pub brings by way of employment. 46% of people who work in pubs are under 25 that is something we should be very proud of and also look at as an opportunity to see how we as an industry with Government support can make more of this. For example apprenticeships can be used to help people develop a career in pubs % hospitality.”
What is your top priority? “As an integrated business, we have two top priorities, maintaining the quality of our beer and ensuring we support and assist our tenants in developing their own retail strategy, then supporting them in delivering it to their customers.”
How much has your business changed to combat the recession? “As all businesses have, we have looked at cost within are business and focussed more heavily in investing in support for our licensees through marketing and also in developing their retail strategies, reducing the price they pay for example utilities via our tenants support package.”
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? “Never stop asking why something is done that way.”
