Best Bar None has appointed Emma McClarkin, CEO of the BBPA, and Steve Alton, CEO of the BII as it strengthens its Board.
The two prominent industry figures join Chairman, Lord Smith of Hindhead, Philip Smith, and other members of the board, Kate Nicholls, CEO of UK Hospitality, Robert Humphreys, Mike Clist, former BII CEO and industry stalwart, and David Lucas, of the Institute of Licensing, to make up a cross section of industry leaders at the helm of the Home Office backed scheme.
Lord Smith of Hindhead, said: “We are delighted to welcome both Emma and Steve to the Best Bar None Board. Their collective experience and industry insight are invaluable and will complement the work of Best Bar None as we continue into the future, supporting the licensed trade through this difficult time.
“In the light of the COVID pandemic, having our three main trade associations fully engaged is more important than ever as we work together to ensure high operational standards of alcohol retailing and the safe continued reopening of our industry.”
Emma McClarkin said: “It is an honour to have been invited to join the Best Bar None board. It is an initiative I have long since admired and holds great importance in maintaining safe night-time economies in our town and city centres, particularly as the industry navigates these challenging times.”
Steve Alton added: “COVID-19 has brought a huge amount of uncertainty to our industry and focussing on the grass roots of operations, putting the focus back on safety, best practices and responsible management will help us come back stronger. I am delighted to now be part of this ongoing journey with Best Bar None as we work to support and demonstrate the important role pubs and bars play in providing venues in which we can socialise safely in our communities.”
Lord Smith of Hindhead continued: “It is paramount that the hospitality industry continues to build on its positive relationships with police and local authorities, working together to deliver safe experiences for customers.
“Responsible operations build the positive reputation of individual venues and of specific areas, which in turn improves profitability and business success. We are determined to support the licensed trade reach these benchmarks to ensure they achieve continued, sustainable growth and stability.”
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For more information, contact jesscurnockcook@leisurepr.co.uk
Notes to Editors
- Best Bar None is a national award scheme promoting partnership working between the pub and bar trade, the police and local authorities. Through enhanced professionalism and customer safety, the scheme reduces alcohol related crime, anti-social behaviour and health harms in the areas where it operates. Best Bar None is supported by the Home Office, the Scottish Government, the police and other authorities, as well as the on-licensed trade.
- Premises are audited for operational standards, policies and procedures, as well as the education and training of staff, in the process identifying and promoting the best and most innovative practice.
- Best Bar None Annual Awards 2019, as announced in the House of Lords in February 2020 – winners:
- Best Overall Scheme – Sheffield
- Best New Scheme – Cumbria
- Most Innovative Scheme – Bolton
- Central Scheme Award – London Cocktail Club, Goodge Street