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Smoking ban? Why should we worry?

Pubs, bars and other entertainment outlets in the Sussex area are already addressing issues regarding the probable introduction of a smoking ban in England this July.

Working with Chichester company HGI Ltd they are learning from the Irish and Scottish experiences which show that if customers are looked after and made to feel valued, the ban is not a hindrance to doing business, but in fact can be a great help. In collaboration with AIR ( A tmosphere I mproves R esults) Neil Henderson MD of HGI Ltd has produced a free guidance booklet that affected businesses can download free of charge from HGI's website www.hgimports.com .

Neil said, “The Irish and Scottish experience is very positive, but it does show that business owners need to be gearing up for the change well in advance of the ban coming in. Of those businesses that made changes most found that they did not suffer any drop off in business in fact many reported increased business as non smokers were attracted into the cleaner air environments. However when left to the last moment the draconian changes imposed in a hurry meant that many customers were left feeling cheated and not valued”.

Without knowing the exact details of the ban it is difficult to provide exact information, but looking at providing comfortable areas for those customers who want to smoke will be crucial. One option is to have large parasols with integral heating and lighting, combined with a wind break. Neil Henderson said “the range available is incredible and if well planned they can add real value to an appropriate outside space, and will be used by all customers I am sure”. As one Irish bar owner Timmy Donovan commented “You have to do something, so spend the money and make it a worthwhile investment”.

Whilst the focus of the effects of the smoking ban is on the licensed trade any business which will be affected should also be proactive, and may also download the free booklet.

ENDS

Information for editors

HGI Ltd is based in Itchenor and for further information Neil Henderson can be contacted by phone on 01243 513511 or by Email; neil@hgimports.com

The A tmosphere I mproves R esults initiative develops and promotes the use of good practice in dealing with the issue of smoking in public places and is supported by leading licensed trade bodies

ENDS

Information for editors

HGI Ltd is based in Itchenor and for further information Neil Henderson can be contacted by phone on 01243 513511 or by Email; neil@hgimports.com

The A tmosphere I mproves R esults initiative develops and promotes the use of good practice in dealing with the issue of smoking in public places and is supported by leading licensed trade bodies