At the end of August, it was announced that a proposed ban on smoking across the hospitality industry could be introduced to help tackle the ever-growing number of smokers across the UK, but what will this do to the hospitality industry? Is it going to have a negative effect?
Our team at Chefshare have been working within the hospitality industry for several years; during this time, we have seen changes come into place surrounding smoking before, but we wanted to take a look into what impact this proposed ban by Keir Starmer will have on the industry, which in places is still struggling post covid.
It is, without a doubt, a significant shift that will change how hospitality currently operates for both the premises owner and the patron! Let’s look at the impacts this smoke-free hospitality ban could have, from economic factors to operational dynamics!
What Is The New Proposed Smoke-Free Dining Plan?
The new proposed smoke-free dining plan, headed by Labour leader Keir Starmer, looks to ban smoking across the hospitality sector in the UK, focusing on outside dining and socialising areas.
Announced in late August, the plan is a broader strategy to reduce smoking rates nationwide by creating smoke-free environments in pubs, restaurants, and cafes. Starmer’s proposal aligns with the government’s goal of making the UK smoke-free by 2030, a move that would see smoking banned in all hospitality venues by this date.
Still, in its consultation phase, the plan could begin taking effect in stages as early as 2025, depending on legislative progress and industry adjustments.
The proposal has sparked significant debate, as it would establish one of the most stringent smoking regulations in the country’s history. Many questions about whether the hospitality industry is prepared for this change have been raised.
How The Extra Pressure On Staff Could Cause Low Employment Numbers
The proposed smoking ban may pressure hospitality staff, potentially leading to lower employment numbers in the industry and making it harder for establishments to recruit chefs and front-of-house staff.
With new regulations, staff will be tasked with enforcing the smoking ban in outdoor areas, which could lead to uncomfortable interactions with customers, especially smokers who may resist compliance.
On top of existing duties, this added responsibility may increase stress and job dissatisfaction among workers already dealing with post-COVID challenges and staffing shortages.
Venues may also experience reduced patronage from smokers, resulting in lower revenues and forcing businesses to cut costs, often through layoffs or reduced hiring.
The combination of increased pressure on staff and financial strain on businesses could contribute to higher employee turnover and reduced overall employment numbers in the hospitality sector.
The Economical Impact On The Hospitality Industry
The proposed smoking ban is expected to have a significant economic impact on the hospitality industry, which is still recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Venues such as pubs, bars, and restaurants, where smoking has traditionally been a draw for specific customers, may face a reduction in patronage, especially from smoking clientele who might choose to frequent fewer venues.
This could result in lower revenue, particularly in establishments that rely heavily on repeat business from smokers. However, attracting new customers who prefer a smoke-free environment, such as families and health-conscious individuals, could boost economics.
The overall financial impact will likely vary across different types of venues, with some adapting more quickly than others to the shift in smoking regulations.
Is Smoke-Free Dining Going To Benefit Public Health?
The smoke-free dining plan, which aims to ban smoking outside hospitality venues, is expected to deliver public health benefits.
By eliminating smoking in outdoor areas of pubs, restaurants, and cafes, the plan will reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, which is known to cause various health issues, including respiratory problems, heart disease, and lung cancer.
This move is particularly beneficial for non-smokers, children, and vulnerable individuals who want to frequent these businesses but do not due to the fear of inhaling second-hand smoke.
Additionally, it will protect hospitality workers from prolonged exposure to secondhand smoke, contributing to healthier work environments.
This ban aligns with broader public health initiatives to reduce smoking rates, which could lead to fewer smoking-related illnesses and associated healthcare costs.
As outdoor smoking becomes increasingly restricted, it may also encourage smokers to quit, further supporting national health goals.
Post-Covid Timing – Is Now The Right Time For This Change?
The timing of the proposed smoking ban in outdoor hospitality venues in the post-COVID era is debatable.
In some instances, the hospitality industry is still recovering from the financial strain caused by the pandemic, and many businesses may find it challenging to adapt to new regulations that could potentially reduce their customer base.
The sector has already faced disruptions, and some argue that further changes, like banning outdoor smoking, could harm struggling venues.
On the other hand, the pandemic has heightened public awareness of health and safety, making it an opportune moment to introduce policies that promote healthier environments.
With more people valuing clean air and outdoor spaces, the shift to smoke-free outdoor dining could align with changing consumer preferences and contribute to a long-term positive impact on public health.
Ultimately, while the ban poses challenges, it also presents an opportunity to reshape the hospitality sector in a way that prioritises well-being.
The Future Of Hospitality – Is Smoke-Free Going To Be The New Normal?
The government’s proposed ban on smoking outside hospitality venues could mark a pivotal shift in the industry’s operations, setting a new standard for smoke-free environments.
As public attitudes toward smoking continue to evolve and health-conscious living becomes more prominent, smoke-free dining could become the new normal.
While some hospitality businesses may initially resist the change due to concerns about losing smoking patrons, the long-term benefits, such as attracting new customers who prefer healthier, smoke-free spaces, may outweigh these challenges.
The success of similar bans in other countries suggests that the hospitality sector can adapt and thrive under stricter smoking regulations.
If implemented, this policy could pave the way for a more health-focused future, where outdoor dining is accessible from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, ultimately benefiting both businesses and the public.
You may find that once the proposed ban comes into place, you still need to recruit chefs; if that’s the case, our team can help you recruit head chefs, sous chefs, chef de parties, and more! Get in touch today!