Weekly Update #17 - Looking Forward and Taking Stock
Hi all, hope everyone and their loved ones are doing as well as can be.
A few weeks back I announced we’d be opening Spring 2020 and as of writing today (Friday 20th March) happens to be the first day of Spring. Obviously, things have changed quite significantly, especially in London, since then.
Over the last couple of weeks or so I’ve been having a long think about our options in this trying time.
Firstly, one of the most important parts of our business is our local community and customers. As a Micropub our goal is to serve as a social hub to Highams Park, Waltham Forest and the wider audience of beer lovers. However, as things stand, the “social” aspect of our business currently flies in the face of government and scientific recommendation. Plus, with the way things are moving, I wouldn’t be surprised if an order was made to close all bars and cafes soon and as I type this the PM has just announced he’s requesting closures.
Unfortunately, whilst our proper opening date may now have to be delayed the same can’t be said for our bills. So, what can we do to get some money in for the time being, and thus ensure we’re able to open fully when the time comes? Here are some ideas:
Take away beer - When I made the licence application I also applied for an off-licence; this means we can sell drinks to be taken away and consumed off-site. This is the most apparent way of generating income until we can open fully - more to come on this soon as I work out the possible logistics.
Gift Cards - Another area I’m looking into, is to see how feasible Gift Cards would be, which people could redeem once we’re open, or to purchase take away drinks (if we go down that route).
Merchandise / Bundles - I recently asked for feedback on the Facebook page as to whether people would be interested in some merchandise. It looks like people are certainly keen. This also leads on to the possibility of making up bundles of say a tote bag and some beers for people to collect.
In some positive news though we’ve finished the illustration version of the artwork to use for prints etc. Which I absolutely LOVE. Check it out:
A massive thanks to the super talented Kate Rowland for working on this. Be sure to check out her website HERE and on Instagram
Finally, don’t forget to support your local independent businesses in any way you can. Highams Park is blessed with some incredible shops and bars and we need to keep it that way.
Cheers,
Rob