No-Shows in Pubs: Deposits and Reminders That Actually Work
A table of six that does not turn up on a Saturday night is not just an empty table. It is the food you prepped, the staff you rostered and the other guests you turned away at five o’clock.
The good news is that a couple of simple habits cut no-shows dramatically.
1. Send reminders
Most no-shows are not malicious. People forget, or plans change and they do not think to tell you. An automatic confirmation when they book, and a reminder before the day, gives them the chance to confirm or cancel. A cancelled table you know about is a table you can refill.
2. Use deposits where it matters
You do not need a deposit on every booking. Use them where a no-show hurts most:
- Large groups and parties.
- Your busiest nights.
- Special events like Christmas, Mother’s Day and match days.
A small deposit, taken at the time of booking, shows that the guest is serious. It can be taken off the final bill, so it never feels like an extra charge.
3. Be clear about your policy
Say it on your booking page and in the confirmation: how much notice you need to cancel, and what happens to a deposit if they do not show. When the rules are clear, people stick to them.
4. Be fair
If a regular rings with a genuine problem, use your judgement. A flexible approach where it counts builds loyalty, while the clear policy protects you from the rest.
Start with your worst night
Pick the night where no-shows cost you most, switch on reminders and add a deposit for larger groups. Compare the next four weeks with the last four.
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