Premier Inn customers furious over change to hotel bar that's 'needless'

James Rodger

17 November 2024 at 6:07 pm·2-min read

Premier Inn customers furious over change to hotel bars that's 'needless' — -Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)

Premier Inn has made a major change to a hotel bar - sparking fury from punters and guests. Premier Inn, which has multiple hotels in Birmingham, has triggered complaints from guests and punters at Gatwick Airport in capital city London after forcing them to queue in single file at the hotel bar.

The change is meant to provide “fair” service. A sign at the Premier Inn at Gatwick airport said in a message to those staying with the group: “We want to provide a fair service to everyone. Queue up at the beginning of the bar and we’ll be with you soon.” But the move has sparked anger on social media.

In reply, one critic sniped: “If it’s a queuing system, the bar should only be four foot wide.” Another fumed: “Some of the best chats I’ve had have been with randoms at a bar while waiting to be served. It isn’t a Post Office, there’s no need to queue.”

A Premier Inn spokesperson said: "Our hotel at Gatwick North Terminal is our largest and busiest hotel in the UK – with over 700 bedrooms and over 1200 guests in house most nights. Our team operate a hugely successful and efficient restaurant service where drinks can be served to tables, but on the occasion the guest would like a drink at the bar we have implemented a system in this hotel to ensure guests are served as quickly and fairly as possible."

BirminghamLive understands this is a one-off policy at the Gatwick Airport location, due to how busy and popular it is. On its website, the hotel chain explains: "Relax, recharge and refuel with us at our family-friendly restaurants across the UK! Whatever you fancy, our great-value menus have got plenty to please. Wake up to our famous Premier Inn Breakfast, tuck into our tasty Meal Deals and treat yourself to some delicious desserts.

"Plus, thanks to our Premier Inn CleanProtect Promise, you can look forward to a generous serving of safety whenever you eat with us." It adds: "From a Berry Margarita Cocktail to a Passion & Spice mocktail, to wonderful wines and refreshing beers, our exciting range of drinks has plenty to lift your spirits!"

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