Joe Cole Offers World Cup Boost for Struggling English Pubs
Former England midfielder Joe Cole has backed a drive to help struggling English pubs by upgrading their TV and audio systems. The move aims to give venues a timely boost ahead of the World Cup and other major tournaments.
Why upgrades matter
Research from Samsung shows landlords see tournaments as vital. Eighty-seven percent say major football events increase takings.
Pubs report an average rise of £11,000 during tournament periods. The sector-wide uplift equates to an estimated £495 million for the UK industry.
Watching matches at the local remains popular. Four in ten Brits attend their local for most big tournaments.
Community matters to fans. Eighty-six percent say shared viewing creates a sense of belonging.
How tech affects choices
Quality screens and sound now shape customer decisions. Thirty-nine percent of respondents rank screen and audio as their top consideration.
That compares with atmosphere at 32 percent and food at 30 percent. Sixty percent of fans have previously chosen a pub based on its premium TV.
However, a third of landlords want new kit but lack funds. Poor viewing drives customers away, with 97 percent admitting they would leave mid-match over bad quality.
Seventy-four percent say their favourite local needs a better TV before the summer of football.
Raise the Bar campaign details
Samsung has launched the Raise the Bar initiative to help pubs upgrade. The programme will support eleven venues with TV and audio improvements.
Ten finalists will each receive a Samsung TV worth £3,000 plus local marketing support. One venue will secure a full tech upgrade and pub makeover worth over £13,000.
The campaign also includes advertising help to drive footfall during key fixtures. The upgrades aim to ensure fans see every tackle, goal and VAR decision clearly.
Support from Joe Cole and Samsung
Joe Cole highlighted the social role of local pubs on matchdays. He said good screens and sound help deliver the matchday atmosphere that brings people together.
Zeena Hill, marketing director for Samsung UK home entertainment and appliances, stressed the brand’s goal. Samsung wants to improve viewing experiences and support community venues.
How to nominate a local
Public nominations open at 8am on Friday, April 17, and close at 5pm on Wednesday, May 20. A shortlist of eleven will be revealed on Thursday, April 30.
After the final voting round, the winner and ten runners-up will be announced by Thursday, May 21. To nominate a pub, visit Filmogaz.com.
The campaign offers a practical boost for struggling English pubs. Better tech could translate into higher revenues and stronger local communities over the summer.
