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Our team read this article from Bon Appétit about Gen Z, and it got us chatting. We put together a summary along with tips for adapting.
Find the full article here, How Bars Are Adapting to Gen Z.
For many young adults who turned 21 during the early lockdowns, the disruption created lasting habits of drinking and gathering at home rather than in public venues.
Because of this, Gen Z, now in their mid-20s, often experiences social anxiety, heightened pressure to make the most of rare “going out” moments, and discomfort with uncertainty in bar environments.
Gen Z drinkers want simpler, less intimidating experiences that prioritize connection and comfort, and bartenders are increasingly seen as guides, helping guests feel welcome and at ease.
While the shift poses challenges for bars, it also highlights opportunities, as young people still value social connection. At the SAFE Bar Network, we've seen that by emphasizing hospitality and lowering social barriers, venues can attract this generation back into public spaces.
The SAFE Bar Network is helping member venues adapt by focusing on hospitality and working to create spaces that feel comfortable. We summarized the key points and added tips and tricks from our member venues.
1. Gen Z faces heightened social anxiety and pressure to have a perfect experience during their rare nights out. Uncertainty can make bars feel intimidating.
ADAPT: Social media can be a great way to let people know what to expect when they step into your space. Share quick videos and photos showing your venue when it's busy, your venue at slower times, and your guests having a great time.
SAFE Bar Network members have started posting carousels and videos introducing their team and sharing pieces of their personality. Here are a few of our favorites, Kilroy's Sports and Ziggy's,
2. Bartenders play a key role in reducing social friction, guiding guests, and fostering comfort.
The SAFE Bar Network is helping our member venues adapt by working together to find creative ways to create welcoming environments that make guests feel at ease.
ADAPT: Give some thought to how you are greeting guests. The ideal greeting makes them feel seen, builds a connection, and lets them know how things work in your venues.
A good way to start is, “Hi, I’m Haleigh, welcome in. Have you been in before, or is this your first time visiting us? Awesome, here is our drink menu and food menu. You can find NA options at the bottom. Order from me whenever you’re ready”.
3. Unlike previous generations who embraced complex cocktail trends, Gen Z prefers simpler, low-stress bar experiences.
ADAPT: We’ve noticed that SAFE Bar Network members are working to reduce decision fatigue by simplifying menus and ordering, providing generous hospitality, and using signage to help guests navigate their venues.
The overall message is one we can get behind, putting a renewed focus on comfort, trust, and community will bring Gen Z and others back into our venues. Not sure where to start? The SAFE Bar Network's mission is to help alcohol-serving venues create a welcoming, fun, safe environment.
Learn more. You can find out more about the SAFE Bar Network at safebarnetwork.org
Like what we’re doing? Be connected and stay updated with the SAFE Bar Network - join our mailing list, www.safebarnetwork.org/signup
Curious about us? Join us at a SAFE Night Out session where you’ll connect with others and learn the magic behind a safe night out. Trust us, it’s fun. Sign up here, tinyurl.com/safenightout
Join the team. All you have to do is share about the SAFE Bar Network with venue leaders you know. Learn more at safebarnetwork.org/join and safebarnetwork.org/bettertookit
You can even send their contact information our way, and we’ll do the sharing for you. Help Us Grow Our Good.
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Pass the hat. The SAFE Bar Network is a nonprofit 501(c)(3), and your tax-deductible donation goes directly to our work increasing safety at alcohol-serving venues, safebarnetwork.org/donatenow