Wetherspoons pubs ban playing music or taking calls on phone speakers
Chain tells customers to ‘pipe down’ and use earphones instead, calling its venues ‘an oasis of tranquillity’ The pub chain Wetherspoons has banned customers from playing music or taking calls on speaker after growing complaints about the noise. The company announced it had introduced the ban across its 792 pubs, saying sounds from smartphones and tablet computers had become an “increasing…
Wetherspoons, the popular pub chain, has implemented a new rule prohibiting customers from playing music or using phone speakers within its 792 establishments. The decision comes after a growing number of complaints about the disruptive impact of amplified phone conversations and videos on the pub atmosphere.
In a statement, Wetherspoons emphasized that their venues serve as "an oasis of tranquillity and contemplation," seeking to provide patrons with a peaceful environment. To maintain this serene setting, the company requested customers to switch their devices to silent mode or utilize earphones when making calls.
Tim Martin, the founder and chairman of Wetherspoons, explained that the ban aims to prevent customers from being "driven chicken jalfrezi by a cacophony of sound." The pub chain's move aligns with similar initiatives by other organizations, such as the Liberal Democrats, who previously advocated for fines up to £1,000 for those who play music out loud on public transport.
A recent YouGov poll revealed that 62% of respondents would support such fines, with a notable 28% opposing the measure. The survey, which polled 6,815 British adults, also found that older demographics, particularly pensioners, were more inclined to back the proposal. Meanwhile, the London mayor, Sadiq Khan, launched a campaign last year urging commuters to use headphones while enjoying music on the city's public transportation system.
Established in 1979, JD Wetherspoon has grown to become one of the most recognizable pub chains in the UK, with its first location opening in Muswell Hill, north London. Originally named Martin's Free House, the pub underwent a rebranding to Wetherspoons shortly thereafter.
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