Toptable Diners Embrace Smoking Ban One Year On
The English anniversary of the smoking ban on 1 July has prompted toptable.com to release a survey of their members to reveal just how much of an effect the controversial ban has had on diners eating out habits over the last twelve months.
London, UK (PRWEB) June 21, 2008 -- The English anniversary of the smoking ban on 1 July has prompted toptable.com to release a survey of their members to reveal just how much of an effect the controversial ban has had on diners eating out habits over the last twelve months.
An overwhelming 81% of diners revealed that they dine out more since the smoking ban, with a huge 73% of respondents citing that the best thing about the new law was their hair and clothes not smelling after a night out.
A further 38% claimed that reduced passive smoking was the best thing about the ban, while being able to "dine in pubs without smoke", and "fresher air" were also given as popular reasons foodies wholeheartedly supported the legislation.
Health Secretary Alan Johnson might be disgruntled to know that the ban, which his predecessor Patricia Hewitt announced would help motivate smokers to quit, has inspired only 10% of smokers to give up the habit.
Since the ban, social commentators have claimed groups of friends have been polarised by the smoking/anti-smoking divide, which was supported by up to 81% of non-smoking diners saying that they wouldn't join their smoking friends outside for company, and 32% of members admitting they were often left alone at the table while their friends nipped out for a sneaky smoke.
While the ban has affected diners socially, toptable's survey also reveals it has also helped shape their choice of dining destinations. 42% of people admitted they dine in pubs more since the ban, and only 30% said they prefer to dine in venues that have smoking areas such as terraces and gardens.
"Many pubs and bars were worried about the effect that the smoking ban might have on business, but our survey shows that the ban has actually encouraged people to dine out more often," says Michelle Smith, editor of toptable.com.
About toptable.com
toptable is the largest online restaurant booker in Europe whose eminent shareholders include legendary football manager Sir Alex Ferguson and celebrity chef Gary Rhodes.
Contact details: Marketing Manager, Zoe Bragman, 020 7034 1787, 07859 060 287.
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