As Britons escape to more social settings, working from the pub is becoming the new working from home. Chains have taken note, and many are now providing offers starting at only £10 per day to entice remote employees despite the continuing cost of living problem.
Due to the current cost of living issue, which is only expected to become worse this winter, pubs will be keen to draw patrons. High energy costs, increasing food and beverage costs, and Britons’ decreased willingness to spend are some of the problems affecting the hotel industry.
The government did launch an energy support package in September, which provides companies with “equal” financial assistance for their bills to that which has been provided to consumers.
However, many contend that with the tripling of pubs’ expenses, this won’t be sufficient.
To lure consumers who are also attempting to avoid their own skyrocketing home energy expenses, numerous establishments have provided working from the bar discounts.
Since parent brewery Young’s announced its £15 Work from Bar (WFP) packages in 2020, education copywriter Jen has worked a few days a month from the Cutty Sark pub in Greenwich, south-east London.
The 185 Young’s pubs that participate in the £15 per day bargain vary in their inclusions, but may range from a sandwich lunch to unlimited tea and coffee.
In the meanwhile, Fuller’s is providing a lunch and a drink every day in all 380 of its pubs for only £10.
Then, for £10 a day, the microbrewery pub chain Brewhouse and Kitchen offers a “workspace” option that includes WiFi, quiet areas, power outlets, an endless supply of hot and cold drinks, and printing.
Pubs sign up to “host” laptop workers as part of the community co-working site Othership, which offers memberships starting at only £25 per month.
Another option is the independent Flintgate Pub in Weybridge, Surrey, which provides a £15 “work and play package” that includes access to power outlets, quiet stations, unlimited tea and coffee and lunch, as well as a pint or G&T sundowner at 5 o’clock.
From the Surrey bar, Luke McMillan manages the flip-flop firm Sea Sense. He said to the Guardian, “I find working at the kitchen table soul-destroying.” The nicest part of working at a pub is getting to socialize with other employees over a drink at the end of the day. The bar is fantastic for its laid-back attitude.