Smoking Ban Hurts Scottish Pubs

Having spent some quality time in the Scottish pubs, I am sorry to report that:

Pubs in Scotland risk going out of business due to a smoking ban that has led to a 10 percent drop in drinks sales, the Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA) has said.

I am surprised to hear that the smoking ban has been bad for business, since the experience in the US has been just the opposite. Bars in NYC actually saw improved business after the ban, something that the Scottish government also promised the Scottish pub association.

Where are the Scots going for fun at night?

According the Scottish Ministry of Health "Seven out of 10 people don't smoke and of those who do, seven out of 10 want to give up." I would also expect people to smoke less in order to maintain their social lives at the pubs.

I'm predicting a resurgence in Pub visits in the future, as non-smokers return for their Haggis. If nothing else, King will give them all the business they need come October.