On the first anniversary of the launch of the night tube in London, the ALMR has praised the positive effect that it has had for eating and drinking out business in an otherwise burdensome operating environment.
ALMR Chief executive, Kate Nicholls, said: “The launch of the night tube not only gave confidence to the sector that London was serious about helping the night time economy, it also provided a welcome boon for customers, employers and employees working in late night venues. When business rates, employment costs and foodservice inflation are increasing pressures on eating and drinking out venues, the night tube has provided a positive chance for growth.
“Even in the early months of the night tube, late night restaurant bookings were up by a fifth with no evidence of harm or disorder. That has likely risen further over the summer and tourist season. London has one of the most attractive late-night hospitality offerings in the world and the night tube has given more people access to first class pubs, bars and restaurants.
“The night tube also makes it easier for late night customers and staff to get home. For workers in particular, this can make the difference between being able to work a shift or not and the Mayor of London is looking at such issues in his consultation on good working standards in London. I would encourage other towns and cities to consider similar measures to make late night working easier.
“The importance of strong trading around the clock cannot be understated – day time and night time licensed venues support each other and the surrounding retail outlets as well. These all add up to being massive drivers in the capital’s economy.”