Wetherspoons Bans Loud Music, Calls
UK pub chain Wetherspoons has banned customers from playing music or taking calls on speaker in its 792 pubs due to growing noise complaints
Wetherspoons, the UK-based pub chain, has introduced a ban on customers playing music or taking calls on speaker in its 792 pubs. The move comes after growing complaints about noise from customers, with the company stating that sounds from smartphones and tablet computers had become an “increasing problem in recent years”.
The ban is part of Wetherspoons' effort to maintain a tranquil atmosphere in its pubs, which do not play music in any of its locations. However, the chain does play music in the evening at its 44 Lloyds' bars, and the new ban will also apply to these venues.
Staff at Wetherspoons pubs will be asked to use common sense when enforcing the ban, with the company stating that it is not looking to ask anyone to leave a pub if they go against the ruling, but it is an option for managers if they refuse to comply.
The move follows a similar policy from rival pub chain Sam Smiths, which bans all phone and tech use, as well as swearing. Wetherspoons chairman and founder, Tim Martin, described the pubs as “an oasis of tranquillity and contemplation” and said that the ban is intended to avoid customers being driven “nuts” by a cacophony of sound.
## Why it matters The ban reflects a growing trend of people being opposed to others playing music or taking calls on speaker in public spaces. A YouGov poll found that 62% of people would back fines of up to £1,000 for playing music out loud on buses and trains, with almost three-quarters of pensioners supporting the move.
The number of Wetherspoons pubs has steadily fallen over the last decade from a peak of 955 in late 2015, with the company facing financial challenges from the Covid pandemic and inflation. The ban on loud music and calls is part of the company's efforts to maintain a welcoming atmosphere and attract customers.
