We live in an age where time and experiences are more precious than things. Part of a growing global trend called the ‘experience economy’, our desire for unique and immersive experiences is forcing pubs and clubs to rethink their traditional business model.

When it comes to bar designs and pub fitouts, a cookie-cutter approach just won’t cut it.

Social Shake-up

Advances in technology have changed how we entertain and socialise. In the past pubs and clubs were often the only communal place for people to be entertained, eat, drink and socialise. However, these days home entertaining has taken over. Streaming services, new devices and home cinemas mean your own house can be a social entertainment hub. Consider live sporting events. Previously an enormous customer magnet for pubs and clubs, showing a match on the big screen is no longer the major drawcard it once was. Nowadays, we all have access to affordable large-screen TVs and subscription packages to watch these events at home. With retailers offering great deals on drinks, and food delivery apps delivering restaurant-quality food direct to our door, it’s no wonder people are choosing to stay-in.

The truth is the kind of entertainment you previously had to go out for is now available in-house whenever or wherever you want it.

Tingalpa Hotel | Built by Unita & Designed by Brand + Slater 

Revamp and Refurbish

So, what are venues doing to get people out of their homes and back into pubs and clubs? For starters, the ugly carpets, dark rooms and old-fashioned decors have made way for lighter, brighter, more aspirational settings. Beautiful dining areas and outdoor beer gardens have been added to create a more welcoming, family-friendly environment that appeals to a wider demographic. Features that create a point of difference or add theatre such as open kitchens are appearing as food preparation becomes more visual and part of the entertainment offering. Operational design improvements, flexible interiors that can deliver all-day dining experiences and play areas to keep the kids busy while mum and dad enjoy some alone time, are some of the design trends getting people back through the doors.

Cleveland Sands Hotel | Built by Unita & Designed by KP Architects 

Food Factor

Pubs and clubs can no longer get away with simply offering generic beers, a few house wines and a no-frills dining menu. While the schnitzel still sells, we now expect restaurant-quality meals and a more varied food offering. Craft beers, an extensive wine list and an interesting cocktail menu are considered must-haves as pubs and clubs compete against the restaurant and bar trade – sectors that have also lifted their game in recent years.

The Bavarian at Westfield Chermside | Built by Unita & Designed by Collectivus

Looking Ahead

Serving high quality food and drink and giving patrons good value for money in a nice setting will always be vital to the success of pubs and clubs. More than that though, in today’s cultural climate the sector needs to be looking ahead to find ways of appealing to a bigger, more diverse audience. The venues that will prosper will be those willing to tailor their offer to their community’s changing needs, use new developments to their advantage and formulate strategies to help attract new clientele.

Successful operators will be thinking about how their venue is perceived by younger generations and ways they can give them what they want. They’re changing how they operate to try and appeal to new types of customers such as all-day trading to capture the breakfast, lunch, after-work and dinner crowds. Finally, they’re staying on top of food and drink trends like craft beer and spirits; offering free Wi-Fi; staging events, particularly live music; and creating inviting and distinctive interiors that foster fun and sociability, to inject life back into the sector and ensure they remain relevant to our evolving communities.

Cherry at The Star | Built by Unita & Designed by Brand + Slater 

Bring your space to life and turn your venue into an experience with a club design or bar refurbishment from Unita. We deliver innovative bar and restaurant fitouts throughout Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and beyond. Get in touch today.