Conservative Clubs face many challenges
The news of historic and iconic clubs across the UK closing is not as surprising as it once was, but should still be alarming. Local conservative clubs; these community hubs which host societies such as dominos darts and cribs watered down with affordable ales; appear to dwindle in number each month. Indeed, three quarters of social clubs have closed over the past 50 years. Newspaper outlets and spokespersons have been lamenting their decline for the last 10 years, whereas only in the last five have we seen the true effect of their devastation and reimagination. Conservative club venues that have been recommended closure, are replaced by betting shops, barbers, convenience stores, flats, or alternative entertainment venues unsuited for the older generation, thus wiping away the club’s long storied history.
The tragedy of the social club is not new. The average membership age continues to climb whilst profit levels tumble. Yet, the changing tide of consumer attitudes is not the only existential threat to social clubs and political clubs. Legislation, licensing, cost of stock, cost of materials, works and repairs costs, improper brokers, internal affairs, as well as changing political views. Conservative club managers need to be aware of the existential risks and do what they can to benefit profit levels, patronage and visitorship.
There are over 1000 ACC affiliated Conservative Clubs spread widely over the UK. The ACC are constantly communicating with these clubs – discovering insights into what ‘revenue-projects’ work and what dangers to look out for. They published a list of tips for maximising revenue, which we have adopted and alongside our own insights from Club Insure members brought together into a guidance piece on how to improve profits at a conservative club.
How to improve profits at a conservative club:
Utilise outdoor space
Clubs managers need to think how they can make their club stand out from the competition. Utilising garden space, or outdoor space on the premises is ideal. Any space at the front of the venue is also great for catching the eye of passers-by. Allow your patrons to advertise your club, and provide them the best experience with fresh air. Outdoor space is ideal for live music events and barbeques, so look out for good weather and get your outdoor furniture in order.
Run Events
Not just one event, multiple. Events are the best way to improve profits, offering greater opportunity for building revenue and often include a wide assortment of services which your conservative club would not normally provide. A community barbeque is ideal for bringing together your neighbours and introducing them to the club. If you have pitches or a sports centre nearby, then a football gala sponsored by the club would be ideal for both fundraising and boosting visitorship. Learn how to host a football gala here.
Public or private events are often not fully insured within the club’s standard buildings and liability insurance. This is because of the likely increase risk and capacity limits. Contact us to learn if your event and planned activities are covered, or whether you need to temporarily increase your cover with event insurance providers such as through Club Insure partner Insure Our Event.
Host Private functions
You could have the best function room in Britain but it won’t get used if no one knows about it. Publicise your function room to the local community via newspapers and Facebook ads. Offer the opportunity to rent it out for the weekend – or offer the space to community groups. More guests means more future members and also the possibility for them to buy drinks and hang around after.
You may want to introduce a policy at your conservative club concerning member use of the facilities during a private event. There is currently no lawful determination within the club’s bylaws, saying if a member is able to use the club during private hire events. Determine if the private hire requires exclusive use of the facilities before the event date.
Wines
Ensure your club has a selection of wine. Include both red and white and rose with different variations. Sparkling wines are essential, as are boxed version which can help to limit waste. Smaller bottles allow clubs to keep a wider selection of wines. A wider drinks selection means more options for patrons and a better experience.
Low and No alcohol options
Invest in low and no-alcohol alternatives, which doesn’t include juices or soft drinks. Seltzers, blue beers, and ready-made-cocktails are ideal for patrons who want to get home safely and are more health conscious.
Promotions
An excellent way of attracting business during the slower days, promotions can help to draw patrons when the club is quieter. Offers such as 20% off or 2-4-1, or crisps with a drink will certainly garner the attention of guests looking out for a bargain. The long-term benefits of a short-term hit via a promotion will pay dividends.
Raffles and Prizes
Offer members the chance to enter a free prized draw on a quieter night. Tell them that to win, they must attend the night. This should help to draw in community members and improve bar sales. Allow the pot to roll over weekly if it’s not claimed, therefore increasing the likelihood of a brilliant prize and a larger turnout.
Quizzes
Community nights could include a quiz. Excellent at bringing together members, having fun and being nostalgic; quizzes are enjoyable and easy to run. At no expense, run your own quiz night to help improve turnout.
Suggestion box
The best way to appease your membership is to ask them exactly what they would like to see at the club. Place a suggestion box on reception or at the bar, and allow members to give their opinion on what events or activities could take place at the club. Funding these would therefore guarantee customer. Discuss the ideas during the committee meeting and get inspired.
Competitions
Who is the best in your club at a sport? Snooker, dominos, cards, cribs, bridge, darts or even singing. A talent competition or sporting content would be enjoyable for both spectators and participants. This allows the club to celebrate it’s members while also improving profits.
Why is improving profits essential for Conservative Clubs
Conservative Clubs are the focal point of many communities, offering a unique social hub and calm presence for many members and locals. Core to the British way of life, Conservative Clubs, working men’s clubs, social clubs and other political clubs need to be protected. One of the greatest risks to the survival of a conservative club is an insurance claim. Claims can range from the thousands to the millions of pounds in damages, and can originate from a plethora of risks, including weather damage or injury, or even cyber attacks. Insurance is essential and important, but getting it right can be difficult.
See why conservative clubs need a dedicated insurance broker here, including what the key policies are for they types of clubs, why a dedicated broker is beneficial, and how conservative clubs can reduce their premiums.
