If you're good with people - but not looking for a traditional 9 to 5 job - working in the pubs, bars and nightclubs industry could offer you something a little different. There is a huge range of opportunities available, from bar and waiting roles right up to area and national director positions.
As people's lives become increasingly busy, they have less leisure time - so making the most of their time off is more important than ever. In pubs, bars and nightclubs, you play a crucial role in creating an enjoyable experience for the customer - their happiness and satisfaction rests on your shoulders! You'll meet a lot of different people every day, which can be a welcome change from the traditional office environment and the fast-paced nature of the industry offers an exciting challenge for those working within it.
If you're energetic, sociable, and enjoy making people happy, this is a great industry for you!
There are currently around 130,000 licensed premises (serving alcohol) in the UK, of which approximately 50 percent are pubs, bars and nightclubs. Most pubs and bars (85%) operate as small businesses, although there are also a number of larger chains such as JD Wetherspoon, Enterprise Inns and Punch Taverns. The nightclub industry is also mostly made up of a few small operators, with a few large operators.
Pubs can be categorised into three types:
- Managed houses (16% of all pubs)
- Freehouses (31% of all pubs)
- Tenanted and leased (54% of all pubs)
Managed houses are owned by brewers and by pub companies. They are managed by a salaried manager and staff. They tend to be found in town and city centres and are often branded outlets.
Freehouses are independently owned and operated pubs. The owner has full operational and managerial control of the pub and is free to decide which products to sell. The owner is responsible for all maintenance and upkeep of the premises.
Tenanted and leased pubs are run by tenants and lessees who pay rent to a brewer or pub company. There may be some obligations to purchase beer or other products but, other than that, the pubs are run as independent small businesses. The relationship between the tenant/lessee and their brewery/pub company vary depending on the type of agreement in place.
Career Opportunities and Skills Needed
There is a wide variety of jobs in the pub, bar and nightclub industry, ranging from bar staff and chefs through to supervisory and managerial positions.
For example, many pubs and bars are now offering more to their customers in an attempt to draw more people in. Many now serve food, so there is an increasing demand for kitchen staff, while some pubs also operate as small hotels or B&Bs.
For a lot of the 'entry-level' positions, many employers say that willingness to work hard and a good attitude are the most important things they look for. For public-facing roles, such as bar staff or waiting staff, good people skills and an appreciation of the importance of customer service are essential. Progression in the industry is most likely for committed workers who are willing to take on new responsibilities.
Many pubs, bars and nightclubs find it difficult to hang on to their staff, as employees sometimes do not stay in their job for long. Individuals who show enthusiasm and commitment to their job are often rewarded by employers with rapid progression up the ladder.
Individuals wishing to move into more senior director positions are likely to require previous managerial experience and be able to display a solid understanding of the industry.
Click here to download an industry profile factsheet.