Nightclubs are one of the most popular places for evening entertainment in the United Kingdom. However, with one nightclub closing every two days due to soaring inflation, venue longevity is on the line. The continuity of your business and your reputation both depend on having robust safety measures and a protection plan in place. Combined, these can be implemented to help secure the future of your establishment, so it’s crucial to know where to start.
Table of Contents
How popular is clubbing in the UK?
In England, Scotland, and Wales, most cities and even large towns have at least one nightclub.
Nightclub culture has changed since the disco-focused boogie eras of the ‘90s, Brits still flock to clubs in their thousands every week. Manchester, for example, is home to an array of different clubs celebrating different genres – like Depot Mayfield, a 10,000-capacity venue home to large events including electronic music party series The Warehouse Project.
According to a new joint report by the Association for Electronic Music and the Night Time Industries Association, the government is underestimating the economic value of nightclub culture. The report suggests that UK nightlife generates at least £36.4 billion each year and accounts for 425,000 jobs too.
Why are some nightclubs closing down?
In the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, nightlife and hospitality venues in the UK have been slower to recover. With widespread concerns about safety and hygiene, many people simply don’t want to go into crowded spaces. For others, the current cost-of-living crisis is putting enough strain on finances to cut back on leisure activities, including going on a night out or even for a few drinks.
Above all, shock incidents, accidents, and regulatory issues can pose a serious threat to venues. While violent behaviour can be controlled with security, fatal accidents or attacks can force any establishment to close its doors.
How can nightclub owners keep their business open?
Safety and hygiene
There is no doubt that this industry is commonly exposed to health risks. These could surface due to a lack of aeration and airflow, accidents involving alcohol, and poor sanitisation. Nightclub owners should install extractor fans and air conditioning units to keep the environment clean and controlled. Additionally, thorough cleaning processes must be ensured every day, with cleaners working throughout opening hours to address spillages and accidents.
Security
For any nightlife venue, a reliable team of security guards is essential. From door staff to those monitoring crowds inside, the safety and wellbeing of revellers cannot be guaranteed without trained and sober members of staff to assist with unexpected or difficult scenarios.
Licensing
From paying your rent and taxes on time to keeping your food and drinks licences up to date, it’s imperative to make sure you’re operating legally. If you’re unsure on any local or regional guidelines, including those for opening hours, it’s always worth getting in touch with your local authority or solicitor.
Promotion and advertising
Lastly, venues only survive when enough people want to go there. Make sure you’re consistently and regularly promoting your venue through traditional and digital marketing, including wall posters and paid online adverts. You can also make good use of LED bottle sparklers from Hype Makerz to attract attention and increase bottle sales in your nightclub.
Final thoughts…
Nightclubs in the UK are in jeopardy. To make sure your business thrives into 2023 and beyond, you need to prioritise safety, regulation, and security. Once you’re confident that you can protect your staff and customers, you can focus on the quality and material in your entertainment calendar.
