Wetherspoons issues new rule as punters warned ordering technique is BANNED – but it’s divided opinion
A WETHERSPOONS boozer has moved to end the “phenomenon” of single-file queuing, sparking debate over bar etiquette.
A photo posted to X shows a sign planted on the bar of a Merseyside Spoons that reads: “Please stand at the bar to be served. Thank you.”
The pub appears to be The Lifeboat in Formby.
It comes as single-file queuing is increasingly spotted at bars across the UK, with many lamenting the new practice.
The post from The Lifeboat went viral after being shared by @QueuesPub, an account describing itself as: “A campaign to end the recent phenomenon of queuing single file in pubs.”
The Lifeboat isn’t the first pub across the UK to erect such a sign, but according to the campaigners it is the first of the Wetherspoon chain.
They celebrated Wetherspoon jumping on board as “a vital moment in the campaign”.
Spoons founder and chairman Tim Martin confirmed the company favours “traditional anarchy” over single-file lines.
“Wetherspoon does not have a specific policy on queuing and, generally, leaves the decision to customers.
“In some pubs, often due to the location of the bar and positioning of tables in front of it, customers prefer to form a single file queue.
“Traditionally, customers wait along the whole of the bar, enabling them to see the beers on tap, the spirit range and to shoot the breeze with bar staff.
“Probably, most customers prefer this method.
“The coffee culture has had an effect on perceptions – people are used to forming a queue in Starbucks and Costa.
“On balance, Wetherspoon would opt for the traditional anarchy of the pub non-queue.”
One responder hailed the move at The Formby, commenting: “Don’t queue. A proper barman can cope with that. Queuing came up in post lockdown and is an abomination.”
Another said: “Queuing in a pub makes it look like a coach load of tourists have just been dropped off for their pre-paid roast and pint of bitter.”
A trawl through social media comments shows many vehemently oppose bar queuing, also believed to be a legacy of the social-distancing era.
Wetherspoon would opt for the traditional anarchy of the pub non-queue
Tim Martin
But there are some who’ve warmed to the idea, arguing lines prevent the more pugnacious pub-goers bulldozing their way through the crowd.
On a viral Reddit thread discussing the sensation, user SpacePiwate said: “I love a queue at a pub.
“I wish queues in pubs were a thing but there (sic) not.
“It annoys me how the cocky drunk guy or girl can rock up at the bar after everyone has been patiently waiting and get served first because they’re loud and staring the bar worker down wanting to be served as soon as possible.”
BritishGent_mlady said: “To be fair, I’ve been in pubs before where it has gotten so busy a queue has formed, and it kinda worked.
“The queues are usually formed by the people who, for whatever reason, just seem unable to reach the bar.
“Sometimes you really do need to push, nudge, shove and shoulder your way to the bar and in that situation the more aggressive and impatient tend to win.
“Hence the forming of a queue, which I understand.”
Other Spoons' rules
KIDS
Wetherspoons welcomes under-18s during permitted hours, which vary from pub to pub.
Kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
If alcohol is ordered, some pubs may ask that all members of that party also order a main meal.
The serving of alcohol is at the manager’s discretion and the purchase or consumption by under-18s is never permitted.
DOGS
The pub chain has a blanket ban on canines.
They aren’t allowed in the pub, in beer gardens or even the car park.
“Even well trained dogs can sometimes behave unpredictably,” the rules say.
The only exception to this is for assistance dogs, but Wetherspoons asks that they are clearly marked with a recognisable leash or collar.
DRESS CODE
Patrons must be fully dressed at all times – this means no taking off your shirts or footwear.
The website also stipulates that clothing slogans, accessories or tattoos must not be offensive.
SMOKING AND VAPING
This is only allowed in designating smoking areas.
Wetherspoons warns that rule applies in hotel rooms and external areas.
BEHAVIOUR
The pub chain urges all patrons to be considerate to both fellow punters and employees.
Rules say boozers will work with the cops to prosecute those physically or verbally abusing employees.