While many traditional pubs are closing due to a decline in trade, The Paper Mill Micropub has been working hard to keep business booming. Since opening in 2013 the micropub has gone from strength-to-strength; including being named the Swale CAMRA Pub of the Year for three years in a row!
Co-owner Harvey Melia is acutely aware of the problems facing the pub trade in 2017. “There are a number of issues facing pubs nowadays,” Harvey comments. “This includes decreasing prices of beer in supermarkets, the decline in pub trade and the increased cost of cask ale. At The Paper Mill Micropub we are trying to tackle these issues by committing to the older format of the ale house, which is a simple formula that encourages good quality produce sourced both locally and further afield and promotes conversation, rather than just bland electronic entertainment.”
The approach is clearly working, as evidenced by The Paper Mill’s numerous award wins and notable customers, which have included the Archbishop of Canterbury!
The Paper Mill is committed to staff training, ensuring all staff are fully trained in handling and keeping real ale. Staff have also acquired personal licenses through the business to ensure they are up to scratch on the laws and regulations of safe alcohol sale. All staff attend beer festivals to learn more about the trade and to gather information on the beers so that they can make knowledgeable recommendations to customers.
Harvey spoke about why he felt that The Paper Mill Micropub deserved to be recognised at the Swale Business Awards: “I believe we should win an award due to our traditional values and the huge achievements we have accomplished within our first 3 years of trade, including being the three-time Swale Pub of the Year; having a write up in the Financial Times on the success of our business in a time where the pub trade is falling and, perhaps most impressively, hosting the Archbishop of Canterbury for an evening with his friends and associates.”
The Paper Mill Micropub
2 Charlotte Street
Sittingbourne
Kent
ME10 2JN
07927 073 584
www.thepapermillmicropub.co.uk