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Royal seal of approval: Prince William’s love for pubs drives industry sales
Business owners have confirmed that royal visits provide a major boost to their bottom line and local reputation
Prince William is being credited with providing a significant boost to the UK’s hospitality sector, with industry experts noting a "Prince of Wales effect" on local businesses.
The royal, who recently declared his love for a traditional pint during an official visit to Scotland, has inadvertently become a powerful marketing force for the nation’s pubs.
The surge in interest follows a high-profile appearance in early 2025, when the Prince sat down with actor Eugene Levy for a special episode of The Reluctant Traveller.
The interview, conducted over a beer in a classic English setting, has led to a major spike in footfall for the venue.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams noted that the "quintessentially English" and "spontaneous" nature of the meeting highlighted the pub as an ideal place to relax, a sentiment that resonated with viewers globally.
Owners of the establishments visited by the Prince have confirmed that the royal seal of approval is "really good for business."
Following the success of the English shoot, the Prince and Princess of Wales made a strategic visit to a Scottish pub, further cementing their support for the industry.
Experts believe these informal appearances are a calculated move to show the royals in a more relatable light while providing a much-needed economic lift to local communities.