Wetherspoons, the popular budget pub chain, has come under scrutiny after staff revealed a strategy to encourage customers to spend more during their visits.

Employees at Wetherspoons have been trained to subtly upsell alcoholic beverages to customers at the point of sale, according to a Channel 5 documentary aired in 2021. The tactic involves mentioning the more expensive option first, such as a double shot of liquor, to increase the likelihood of customers opting for the pricier choice.

It’s part of the training for members of staff to try and add an extra item onto every order,” one employee disclosed. Another staff member confirmed the technique, explaining, “We say the word ‘double’ first so it sticks in their head. It works most of the time.”

However, Wetherspoons has denied actively promoting the upselling of alcoholic beverages, claiming that such practices are encouraged only for soft drinks. The chain stated that while customers are asked if they want a larger size for soft drinks, upselling of spirits has been discouraged for the last decade.

In response to the allegations, Wetherspoons emphasized the importance of speedy service matched with precise pouring, ensuring a fair share of froth with every pour of draught beer.

This revelation comes as Wetherspoons recently announced a major revamp of its menu, axing 18 drinks ahead of the summer season. Several spirits, including Lambs Navy Rum, Bombay Bramble, and Gordon’s Sicilian Lemon, have been dropped from the latest menu update in May.

Changes to the cocktail menu have also been implemented, with popular options like Tanqueray Spritz and Smirnoff and Monster pitchers no longer available. Additionally, Tropical Raspberry and Tropical Guava Corona seltzers have been removed from the selection.

As the debate surrounding Wetherspoons’ sales tactics continues, customers and industry observers await further developments from the chain

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