Priorities have changed for the better

For the May June issue of Drinks Industry Ireland, Fionnuala Carolan focuses on an important trait that she's sees emerging among publicans

We spoke to publican Anthony Morrisson from Christy’s Pub in Kilkenny for our Pub Profile interview this month. One of the things he spoke about that really struck me as significant was the difference in perspective between the last generation of publicans and the modern day publican. He spoke of his father being ‘beholden’ to the pub and this is something that would probably resonate deeply with many children of publicans.
There was an acceptance that the business always came first and nothing was more important than keeping the customer happy. So much so that family events, holidays and other life milestones were skipped in order to be in the pub and not disappoint the customer. Anthony says that he decided things would be different on his watch. He works extremely hard but some things are non-negotiable with him – primarily making time for his family and his hobbies so that there is life beyond the pub and his whole self is not defined by it. The traditional mode of allowing the business to dictate family life could answer for the fact that many children of publicans have no interest in taking over the family business because they saw first-hand the sacrifices that were made. Anthony demonstrates that things can be done differently, and the customer is not in charge of your destiny but that a successful business can be run on your own terms.
Also in this issue, we speak to Rick LeVert, managing director of Kinnegar Brewing in Co Donegal. His dedication to brewing is evident but he also makes sure to balance his work and life so that he doesn’t become burned out. Being dedicated to our work does not mean we need to to bury ourselves in it. Looking after your physical and mental wellbeing and the wellbeing of your staff, will lead to a far more successful business in the long term and ensure that you retain a love of what you do.
Elsewhere in this issue we focus on Summer Drinks and have plenty of drinks inspiration for the season ahead (page 24). We also have a feature on Sustainability (Page 31) focusing on the many fascinating initiatives that are happening throughout the drinks industry and teaching us that there is so much more that we can do to take care of our environment for future generations.