David Meades Profit Cocktail

25 March 2013

Nearly one hundred publicans from across Northern Ireland descended on Derry/Londonderry last week, as Pubs of Ulster discussed the key issues affecting the future of the licensed trade at its Annual General Meeting.

This year’s annual meeting of members at the Tower Hotel – the first time the AGM has been held in Derry/Londonderry – had a very special guest, as TV star and motivational speaker, David Meade took to the stage to lead an interactive workshop designed to  help pubs develop their ‘Profit Cocktail’.  David guided publicans through a host of practical techniques focused on driving sales by developing their customer experience, combining his personal interests of popular psychology, consumer behaviour and choice with the performance of mentalism.  The unique workshop was designed to encourage publicans to think critically about the challenges around them and how to strive for success in a challenging marketplace.

 

Speaking at the event, Magherafelt publican and chair of Pubs of Ulster, Mark Stewart said:

 

“As a local man, I’m delighted that we have been able to host the event in Derry/Londonderry, especially with this year’s City of Culture status.

 

“Our AGM is one of the key events in the industry’s calendar, as it’s an opportunity for publicans from right across Northern Ireland to come together and discuss the issues that affect each and every one of us.  This year was also unique thanks to David Meade, who really drove home the message that the customer is king in our industry.  David’s unique skills give a rare insight into customer behaviour and motivating staff.  With the future of our industry dependent on delivering a high quality product, David's 'Profit Cocktail' showed how to get all the ingredients together necessary to deliver a great customer experience and a healthy profit."

 

As well as looking at how pubs can find innovative ways to boost business, the AGM also examined key issues affecting the industry locally.  Delegates were briefed on issues such as minimum pricing, licensing legislation, business rates and VAT, as well as how Pubs of Ulster put Northern Ireland’s pubs at the heart of the campaign to scrap the duty escalator – which was abolished as part of the Budget.

 

Colin Neill, chief executive of Pubs of Ulster said:

 

“It has been a very challenging time for the pub trade, but the AGM allows us to come together and take stock of where we are and look at where we are going.  To see so many publicans from right across Northern Ireland come together in Derry/Londonderry is also encouraging, as it shows that as an industry we are all working together.

 

“Despite the challenges, we are making progress and we believe that there is a future for our pubs.  The hard work to safeguard the industry will continue and Pubs of Ulster plans to bring the issues