SLTN Awards Brochure 2015

ENTRY BROCHURE

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WELCOME TODAY marks the official launch of the 2015 SLTN Awards – and the 20th annual search for Scotland’s best venues, operators and staff promises to be as exciting and keenly anticipated as ever.

In association with our valued commercial partners, we’re seeking entries for no fewer than 20 awards – highlighting the rich diversity and unparalleled expertise Scotland’s world famous hospitality sector is known for.

Our judges will spend the summer visiting and assessing licensed businesses all over the country as we home in on the pick of the crop for 2015.

But before then we need you to tell us why you, your businesses or a member of your staff should be in the running.

If you’ve got what it takes to be an SLTN Award winner, you’ll find all the details you need to enter in this special brochure. Or you can register your entry by visiting www.sltn.co.uk Entries will be shortlisted and judged over the summer, with the winners announced at a glittering black-tie dinner at Glasgow’s Hilton Hotel on Thursday November 5.

Good luck.

Gillian McKenzie Editor, SLTN

Enter online:

WWW.SLTN.CO.UK Entries or nominations must be received by Friday May 22, 2015.

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CONTENTS 4 ......................................................... Independent Pub/Bar of the Year 5 .............................................................................Mixologist of the Year 6 ............................................................................................. Wine Award 7 ................................................................... Social Responsibility Award 8 ........................................................................... Restaurant of the Year 9 ............................................................................Sports Bar of the Year 10 ................................................................................ Best Outdoor Area 11 ....................................................................Late Night Bar of the Year 12 ............................................................... Industry Achievement Award 13 ............................................................................... Beer Quality Award 14 ......................................................................................... Unsung Hero 15 ........................................Independent Multiple Operator of the Year 16 .................................................................................. Craft Beer Award 17 ......................................................................Family Outlet of the Year 18 ........................................................................... Licensee of the Year 19 .......................................................................... Bartender of the Year 20 ....................................................................... Cocktail Bar of the Year 21 ........................................................................ Whisky Bar of the Year 22 ............................................................................Nightclub of the Year 23 ................................................................. Community Pub of the Year 26 .............................................................................Rules & Regulations 27 ............................................................................................ Entry Form

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SPONSORED BY

Tucked away in the Swedish countryside in the small town of Kopparberg, you’ll find a little brewery with unique tastes. Built back in 1882, the Kopparberg Bryggeri, with its traditional red timber falu walls, remains independent and is today owned by the Bronsman family. The brewery is the home of our uniquely refreshing cider. A Swedish fruit pioneer, Kopparberg is exported to the UK and can be found in pubs and bars across the country.

INDEPENDENT PUB/BAR OF THE YEAR Independent pubs and bars account for a significant proportion of Scotland’s on-trade, and in sponsoring the SLTN Independent Pub/Bar of the Year award, Kopparberg celebrates the vital role which the free trade holds in Scottish society.

The judges will look for ways in which each operation has adapted and positioned its business proposition to its identified target market, and also assess how responsive the pub operator is to the needs of their consumers.

In analysing an outlet’s performance, judges will take into account the pub’s business strategy and how successful the implementation of that plan has been, in making the outlet both popular and commercially successful.

For the purposes of this award independent pubs and bars are classified as licensed premises which hold a premises licence, and belong to a free trader who owns and operates no more than three outlets.

JUDGES WILL CONSIDER: n n n n n n n

Marketing initiatives.

Product range.

Recruitment, training and motivation of staff.

Investment and reinvestment in the business.

Customer service - standards and initiatives.

Sustainability against new competition.

Financial performance.

Is your pub or bar an excellent performer with an understanding of, and great connections to, its market? We’d like to hear from you.

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MIXOLOGIST OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by Pernod Ricard UK and Barnomadics, the SLTN Mixologist of the Year award will recognise the bartender who demonstrates the best overall knowledge of the premium spirits category and demonstrates innovation and creativity when making cocktails.

JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: n An extensive knowledge of spirits categories, the premium brands within them and drinks trends in the past year.

SPONSORED BY

Pernod Ricard UK is part of the Pernod Ricard Group, co-leader of the global wines and spirits industry. The company’s popular premium spirit brands are perfect partners for SLTN’s Mixologist of the Year award. Pernod Ricard UK is a member of the Portman Group – promoting responsible drinking.

Barnomadics creates beautiful drinks and bars for some of the country’s most desirable brands, bars and events in the UK. Providing stunning mobile bars for hire, modern equipment, elegant glassware, pro bartenders, mixologists, cocktail waitresses, cocktail design and training solutions.

n The correct use of glassware, premium mixers, fresh fruit, garnishes and ice. n Knowledge of the cocktails sector, its heritage, development and place in today’s bars. n Good mixology skills, an innovative approach to developing new cocktails and signature drinks, and a willingness to work with new products. n Evidence of pushing the boundaries in mixology in the past year. n Confidence and style when making and presenting cocktails.

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WINE AWARD SPONSORED BY The SLTN Wine Award 2015 is open to all on-trade premises in Scotland.

We’re looking for an outlet that’s doing excellent things with and for wine in its own market.

As Scotland’s leading independent wines and spirits merchant, we have a commitment to our customers to ensure they receive the best possible product and service. Our wines and spirits portfolio is second-to-none with over 2,000 wines from 140 producers, many of which cannot be found anywhere else.

We lead one of the foremost wine training academies in the world, ranked consistently in the top ten by the WSET. Winelisting and in-house design services complete the service package and, with a national sales and distribution resource, we go the extra mile to meet our customers’ needs on time and in full.

We deliver beyond expectations.

main judging criteria will include: n RANGE Consideration of varietals, styles, regions and countries of origin. n WINE BY THE GLASS Wide range of wines available by the glass across all quality levels. n KNOWLEDGE Evidence that continual staff training is provided to ensure staff have a reasonable knowledge of the range on offer. n INNOVATION Steps taken to improve the quality of wine sold in outlet and improve the customer experience. n PRICING A wine list that represents value for money to the consumer. n RANGE DEVELOPMENT Interaction with wine suppliers and customers to develop a wine range that reflects market trends.

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SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AWARD The winner of the Social Responsibility Award will show an awareness of best practice in alcohol retailing and will have systems in place to ensure that every part of the operation is run in a socially responsible fashion and that every member of staff understands the outlet’s policies and practice.

SPONSORED BY

Good licensed trade operators have always shown a socially responsible attitude to alcohol retailing; it makes good business sense. We are looking for Scottish venues that lead in this field and provide a model for the entire industry.

judges will look for: n Awareness of and adherence to all requirements under licensing and other laws. n Awareness of national and local policies and guidelines from drinks industry organisations, local licensing and other authorities. n A robust system to prevent underage drinks purchase and clear communication of the policy. n Responsible display, pricing and promotion of alcohol. n A clear system for dealing with difficulties that can arise in licensed premises, including customers who become intoxicated. n A monitoring system for incidents and resolutions. n Good use, where appropriate, of security technology. n Original activities that really drive the social responsibility agenda – what sets you apart from your competitors? n Training programmes that ensure staff are aware of their responsibilities and use best practice. n Good relationships with local police and bodies like licensing forums. n Good controls and systems for exit and dispersal of customers. n Co-operation with local neighbours to minimise disturbance, litter, etc. n Involvement in local initiatives like Pubwatch, Crimestoppers and Best Bar None. n Involvement in positive local programmes which benefit social and community life.

Diageo Great Britain is the sales and marketing company of Diageo Plc in England, Scotland and Wales.

As one of the world’s leading consumer goods companies, Diageo operates in more than 180 countries, with a strong array of brands and an ambitious growth strategy.

Diageo GB is committed to responsible drinking and actively works with third parties both nationally, such as the DrinkAware Trust and the Portman Group, and in local initiatives to equip consumers with the information they need to make sensible choices about alcohol.

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TRAPLINE

SPONSORED BY

CMYK logo

astle hill and large hill behind p of a Cyan graduation with a 4 graduation overprint.

Strathmore pure Scottish spring water has been drawn from deep beneath the beautiful Vale of Strathmore close to historic Glamis Castle since 1880. All Strathmore packs carry the brand message ‘A source of clarity’, highlighting its authenticity as a major Scottish water brand.

CYAN

MAGENTA

CYAN

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

BLACK

Strathmore has been the best selling water brand in the on-trade for over ten years and is a proud supporter of The Prince’s Trust, one of the UK’s leading youth charities.

Sponsored by Strathmore Scottish Spring Water, the SLTN Restaurant of the Year award will go to the restaurant that demonstrates the highest quality of food and service together with a good range of perfectly served soft drinks to offer consumer choice.

The Restaurant of the Year category is split into two divisions.

In the over £40 fine dining division we’re looking for restaurants where typically a three course dinner (without drinks) from the a la carte menu would cost £40 or more.

In the under £40 casual dining division we’re looking at those where a three course dinner (without drinks) would cost less than £40.

In each division the judges will look for: n QUALITY Absolute commitment to the preparation of high quality food. n SERVICE Consistently high standards of service, reflecting investment in staff training. n Drinks A comprehensive and relevant drinks range, including an appropriate selection of soft drinks – with attention to detail on how they are served to befit a premium occasion. n Atmosphere Flair, character, ambience – call it what you will – a good restaurant has it.

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SPORTS BAR OF THE YEAR

SLTN has joined forces with Sky to look for Scotland’s best all-round sports bar. The judges are looking to find those on-trade outlets who use sports events as a way of maximising their business.

JUDGES WILL ASSESS:

SPONSORED BY

Almost four million adults watch football in a pub or bar every month and Sky’s sporting schedule offers licensed premises unrivalled coverage with over 55,000 hours of sport across our channels.

Sky’s ultimate mix of live sport, entertainment and news channels drive footfall into venues, and ensures customers stay longer and spend more. With seven dedicated Sky Sports channels, two British Eurosport channels, two dedicated horse racing channels and more - with Sky there are endless opportunities to help drive your business.

n How live televised sports are used to drive footfall and build an outlet’s reputation as a sports viewing destination. n Evidence of commercial success gained through promoting live sport. n The promotion of live sport through marketing activity, including social media platforms. n Food and drink offers tailored to the sports shown. n The overall sports viewing experience, including screen and audio quality.

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BEST OUTDOOR AREA

SPONSORED BY Does your bar, restaurant or hotel deliver a quality al fresco experience? If so, SLTN and Magners want to hear from you. The SLTN Best Outdoor Area award will go to a venue with an outdoor space which has made a real impact on the business in the past year.

Magners Irish Cider is pleased to announce its support of this year’s Best Outdoor Area award. With a heritage firmly rooted in advocating good times, Magners is well placed to discover what unique and exciting elements these outdoor spaces have to offer.

This is a tough category with the potential for some interesting entries, and we’re once again looking forward to being involved with this year’s awards, and seeing what the nominees have in store for us.

judges will CONSIDER: n DESIGN AND FUNCTION The outdoor area should demonstrate good use of space, be clean, tidy and well-maintained, and able to comfortably accommodate al fresco drinkers and diners as well as smokers. n INNOVATION Smart use of the al fresco area for marketing and promotion through, for example, branded parasols or outdoor TV screens. n SUCCESS The outdoor space should have made a real impact on the business in the past year.

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LATE NIGHT BAR OF THE YEAR

Atmosphere is key to a late night bar. The SLTN Late Night Bar of the Year award will go to an outlet that successfully combines a late night ambience with top quality drinks and excellent customer service.

SPONSORED BY

Innovation is vital in the late night sector and the SLTN Late Night Bar of the Year will be able to demonstrate business innovation, drinks retail and customer service excellence, and an impactful marketing strategy.

The judges will consider:

n AMBIENCE AND ATMOSPHERE A stylish bar design which conveys a late night vibe. n DRINKS AND SERVICE A range of quality drinks appropriate to the late night bar’s clientele served by knowledgeable staff. n INNOVATION Key innovations made to the offer in the past year and their impact. n MARKETING AND PROMOTION Evidence of successful activity undertaken in the past year to communicate with the late night bar’s clientele.

Tsingtao (pronounced Ching Dow) is the second largest beer brand globally.

Tsingtao has an ABV of 4.7%, and is made using barley malt and blended with hops and rice from western China. The process is completed using Laoshan spring water.

The latest nationwide out of home campaign aims to educate consumers around the pronunciation of the brand.

The brand enjoys distribution in the majority of UK Chinese restaurants, notable UK on-trade customers and multiple groups. Tsingtao offers a range of merchandise and in-bar activities such as Dragon Masters, where consumers can test their table tennis skills against a robotic Tsingtao dragon. Look out for the Tsingtao Racing team in this season’s British Superbikes & TT tournaments. www.tsingtaobeer.co.uk

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SPONSORED BY

www.mixxit.co.uk

Please enjoy our brands responsibly

Maxxium UK is one of the country’s most dynamic and innovative spirits companies, passionate about creating quality mixed drinks and cocktails. Operating from a head office in Scotland, our success is down to the fact that we’re a community of talented individuals building brands to be proud of. That’s why we’re delighted to acknowledge others whose inspirational blend of innovation and passion have made a special contribution to the Scottish licensed trade.

INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD The SLTN Industry Achievement Award 2015, presented in association with Maxxium UK, will recognise an individual member of the trade who has made a very special contribution.

The most important influences on Scotland’s licensed trade are the people who play their part in it - as owners and entrepreneurs, managers and educators, activists and innovators. Each year we recognise a very special member of the trade.

the judges will look for:

n CONTRIBUTION That may be a lifetime spent at the forefront of the industry or in the drinks retailing service of a single community.

On the other hand it may be the much quicker turnaround of a failing business. It may recognise a major contribution: to the training of young entrants to the industry; to the development of trade bodies; to the promotion and presentation of a local area or indeed of Scotland in general; to the development of an important trade sector, like entertainment, cuisine or visitor attractions; to the significant improvement of standards in the industry; to the improvement of the public image of the trade. n NOMINATIONS This is a category in which we expect a high number of nominations. You may propose anyone in the industry who has, in your opinion, made a significant difference - over a full career or over a shorter time.

If you know of someone who has made a major contribution to the development of the industry in Scotland, please play your part in ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve.

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beeR QuAlIty aWarD

In the Beer Quality Award, Wallaces TCB and SLTN are looking for those outlets keeping, presenting and dispensing beer to the highest levels.

the judges are seeking entries from venues of all types and will look for:

sponsoRed by

With an unrivalled history and heritage, Tennent’s Lager is Scotland’s undisputed number one alcohol brand. It has achieved this status through innovative marketing, a dedication to quality and an unmatched commitment to the Scottish marketplace.

Tennent’s Lager recognises that its success is due in no small part to the support of the licensed trade.

Our customers are fundamental to the delivery of a perfect quality pint. This is why we are delighted to sponsor this award that recognises and rewards bars and staff for the ongoing commitment to the delivery of beer quality.

n Excellent cellar management, exemplary cleanliness and appropriate cellar temperature control. n Good staff knowledge of the processes involved in receiving, storing, rotating and changing kegs etc, for different beers. n A well-planned bar area designed to help maintain beer quality and dispense excellent beer. n Good use of founts to present the beer range to the consumer. n A full stock of appropriate glassware for each type of beer, including branded glassware, nucleated glasses and specialist beer glasses where appropriate. n A good, well-understood system of glass cleaning, storage and replenishment. n Excellence in dispense, good staff knowledge of the pouring and presentation techniques required for the different beers and consistent delivery of perfectly-presented beer. n Clear demonstration of the understanding of the importance of quality amongst management and staff within the outlet.

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UNSUNG HERO

SPONSORED BY Are you or do you know someone who has gone the extra mile in Scotland’s licensed trade in the past year? Perhaps you, or they, are a member of bar staff who goes above and beyond the call of duty in their day-to-day job. Maybe it’s someone who works tirelessly to raise money for charity. Or perhaps the SLTN Unsung Hero is someone only too willing to lend a hand to a local in need.

BUILDING CONTRACTORS AND SHOPFITTERS

Formed in 1960, Hugh Stirling Ltd specialise in refurbishment, fit out and shopfitting. We have an enviable reputation within the licensed leisure sector for fast track delivery of bespoke refurbishment solutions.

We are delighted to sponsor the Unsung Hero award for 2015.

Good luck to all the entrants - we look forward to congratulating the winner in November.

For more information call 0141 420 1666 or visit: www.hughstirling.co.uk

The judges will look for someone who: n Has gone the extra mile either through their commitment to work or charity in the past year. n Goes above and beyond what is expected of them to help others. n Uses their position in a licensed trade business to raise money and/or awareness of a charity or local group.

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INDEPENDENT MULTIPLE OPERATOR OF THE YEAR The Independent Multiple Operator of the Year will be a business that consists of four or more bars, restaurants, hotels or nightclubs. Skill and ability in identifying a market opportunity, seeing it through to operational reality and handling all the complexities of multiple site management will be the key characteristics of this award winner.

SPONSORED BY

The Independent Multiple Operator of the Year award, presented in association with Smirnoff®, recognises and celebrates the spirit of entrepreneurship that is redefining Scotland’s licensed trade.

JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: n VISION AND DRIVE The award winner will clearly demonstrate the vision that has driven them to build a multi-site operation. Great ideas, determination, tenacity and drive are key qualities. n BUSINESS SUCCESS Judges will be looking for evidence of a successful, thriving and sustainable business. n CONSUMER MARKETING ACTIVITY The judges will look for evidence of marketing excellence, and a clear path from the identification of opportunities and execution of campaigns to commercial success.

As well as considering the use of traditional marketing methods, the judges will be especially keen to see how candidates are harnessing social media to boost their outlets’ reputation, promote events, drive footfall and enhance the consumer experience. Evidence of good product knowledge and successfully introducing brands to new consumers will also be sought. n BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT The award winner will demonstrate a clear understanding of the changes in the marketplace, including competitor activity, and will plan for the future.

Smirnoff® is the number one spirit in Scotland, accounting for a quarter of all spirit sales in the on-trade1.

Smirnoff® is ten times filtered to offer extraordinary purity, and is considered to be a “truly great brand” by 80% of consumers2. As a priority market for the Smirnoff® Company, it offers an unrivalled level of on-trade support in Scotland including: POS, training on the perfect serve, and development of drinks menus, all of which help to drive footfall and ROS for outlets.

Smirnoff®, as part of Diageo GB, is committed to responsible drinking and actively works with third parties both nationally, such as the DrinkAware Trust and the Portman Group, and in local initiatives to equip consumers with the information they need to make sensible choices about alcohol.

The SMIRNOFF word and associated logos are trade marks. © The Smirnoff Co. 2015 2

1 24.6% MAT volume share data to Dec 2014 Millward Brown, GB Consumer Tracking Jan 2011

n STAFF Our winner will have well-trained and highly motivated staff who understand the business and its consumers.

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SPONSORED BY

Eden Mill at St Andrews is Scotland’s original craft distillery and brewery.

As such it has one simple aim: to get more people enjoying Scotland’s authentic crafted spirits and beers.

Eden Mill’s award winning beers and gins are sold in as diverse locations as St Andrews Old Course, The Fairmont Hotel, The Wild Cabaret Bar in Glasgow and the awardwinning Anstruther Fish and Chip Shop.

CRAFT BEER AWARD

Craft beer has taken the trade by storm in recent years and is now one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing segments of the beer category.

The judges will look for an outlet that can demonstrate excellence in craft beer, both in terms of its product range and the level of knowledge displayed by its staff.

The team at Eden Mill are proud of the awards won for their innovative brews and spirits, and they are also passionate about their authentic and sustainable brewing and distilling practices, which they love to share with visitors and friends.

For more info contact experience@edenmill.com or 01334 834038 www.edenmill.com

Judges will seek the following: n A strong and varied range of craft beer on draught and in the fridge. n A thorough understanding of the craft beer category, and the benefits it can bring to an outlet’s beer range and sales. n Staff that are knowledgeable about the beers they sell, and are able to make recommendations to customers. n An ability to provide a perfect serve for craft beers. n Evidence that the outlet has made an effort to tailor its craft beer range to its clientele.

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FAMILY OUTLET OF THE YEAR

Britvic Soft Drinks is proud to again be part of this year’s awards by sponsoring the Family Outlet of the Year award. Catering for the family occasion is a significant opportunity, particularly when providing food. Families are more likely to visit higher quality outlets for these occasions, so in all cases quality food, leading drinks brands and child-friendly facilities are the foundations of a successful family outlet.

The Family Outlet of the Year award is open to all on-trade outlets catering for the family market.

SPONSORED BY

Britvic Soft Drinks is one of the UK’s leading soft drinks manufacturers and is dedicated to creating and building brands such as Pepsi, Robinsons, Tango and J2O into household names.

Operating in both the ‘Take Home’ and ‘On-Premise’ markets, it is the largest supplier of branded still soft drinks and the number two supplier of branded carbonates.

The company offers its customers a portfolio of soft drinks to meet every consumer occasion and need and has a strong track record of delivering successful innovation.

SLTN and Britvic Soft Drinks are looking for outlets that deliver a fantastic experience the whole family can enjoy.

The winning venue will have a clear commitment to catering for the whole family – from children to grandparents – and offer a full range of products to suit this broad customer base.

Our successful winner will have demonstrated how they consider families in a wide range of activities, from menu creation to promotions and communication. It is likely to have food specifically designed for children and facilities especially for children. It may also offer additional services such as hosting children’s parties.

At the same time we’re keen to see that the outlet considers the whole family - that could include teenagers, parents and grandparents as well as young children.

The winning outlet is likely to be one in which different family groups can all be accommodated and served well.

We’ll be looking for effective, imaginative use of space and location, as well as the food and drink offering - how has the outlet pushed outside of the accepted normality to mark them out as special? How have new trends in eating out influenced how this outlet has succeeded?

This might include everything from the use of outside space all the way through to how customers are looked after in the venue – including the staff and how they are trained with families in mind.

Do you make a special effort in the family market or do you know someone you would like to nominate for the Family Outlet of the Year? Turn to page 27.

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LICENSEE OF THE YEAR SPONSORED BY Licensee of the Year is a category open to owner/operators who hold a personal licence in the Scottish on-trade. We are looking for someone who can look back on the last 12 months with a sense of pride and the satisfaction of a job well done.

We produce many of the leading beer brands in the UK including Carlsberg, Carlsberg Export, San Miguel, Tetley’s, Tuborg and Somersby Cider. We also import under licence premium world beers including Staropramen from Prague and Mahou from Spain.

Are you (or do you know) a licensee who has worked hard, with the best interests of the Scottish hospitality sector at heart, whether by improving standards and service within the industry or by helping others to create a ‘legendary local’?

Our Tapster’s portfolio provides our business customers with a handpicked selection of British traditional and contemporary cask ales to suit every consumer taste and occasion.

But we are more than just a beer company. Through our Crown Cellars division, we source a variety of specialist wines and spirits from across the globe, utilising the passion and knowledge of a dedicated Master of Wine for the benefit of our customers. To find out more, visit www.carlsbergwedelivermore.co.uk or phone 0845 3710 199 (quote SLTNA.)

n Evidence of success The winning owner/operator will be able to demonstrate business success in the past year. n Knowledge The Licensee of the Year will also have in-depth knowledge of the marketplace and of their business’s position within the market. n Staff Training will be paramount to our winner and they will lead by example and show commitment to training their staff. n Professionalism and commitment More than anything else the judges will be impressed by licensees who apply professionalism to everything they do.

To enter, or nominate, please fill in the entry form on page 27.

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BARTENDER OF THE YEAR

Open to all bar staff across Scotland, the SLTN Bartender of the Year category seeks to recognise the creativity, knowledge and passion of the country’s best all-round bartender. We’re looking for someone with the skills, knowledge and desire to make a real difference to enhance the experience of their drinkers. The perfect presentation of products encourages customers to return for more. This award will recognise a passion for presentation and creativity in the ways in which beer and other drinks can be served and celebrated in pubs.

THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: ENHANCING CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE n The ability to spark up conversation and find out about the customer’s likes and dislikes. n The ability to talk knowledgeably and confidently about the drinks and brands they sell. n The ability to identify customers’ needs and make recommendations.

KNOWLEDGE OF BEER n An interest in and knowledge of the making of beer – from the ingredients to the brewing process. n Delight in the tasting of beer – understanding beer styles and taste profiles. n A desire to develop themselves and coach others through training and development.

SPONSORED BY

Molson Coors (UK) has a commitment to the beer industry to work with our customers to enhance how beer is positioned and enjoyed, responsibly, in outlet.

By working on quality at point of purchase, footfall driving activities and innovation, Molson Coors (UK) constantly aims to champion consumer experience, hence why it is important that Molson Coors (UK) is this year’s sponsor of the Bartender of the Year award.

CHAMPIONING QUALITY n A good understanding of what can affect the quality of beers, wines, ciders and spirits and how to improve it. n Dedication to the continual improvement of the standards and service offer. n Knowledge of good cellar management and the impact this can have.

Passionate about presentation n An understanding of the importance of using the correct glassware for the perfect serve. n Demonstration of creativity and innovation in the way beer and other drinks are served.

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SPONSORED BY

BACARDÍ, the world’s most awarded rum, recently announced the first packaging update in more than a decade, designed to reflect the brand’s unique heritage and timeless quality. The new-look bottles are slimmer and taller, designed to be easier to handle and more quickly picked up from a standard bar rail. The new packs also herald a return to the original Spanish names for the portfolio of rums – Superior, Gold, and Black have become ‘Carta Blanca,’ ‘Carta Oro’ and ‘Carta Negra.’ The newest addition to the range is a spiced rum spirit drink called BACARDÍ Carta Fuego, meaning ‘fire’ in Spanish. The new BACARDÍ portfolio of both light and dark rums is the perfect partner to create a range of cocktails for your menu. Contact your BACARDÍ representative to find out more about the new range and work with BACARDÍ rum to create solutions for your managed retail estate.

COCKTAIL BAR OF THE YEAR

Cocktails provide an excellent opportunity to build on the benefits of premium drinks brands. They help an outlet increase both profitability and consumer appeal. In the Cocktail Bar of the Year award, SLTN and Bacardi Brown-Forman Brands are looking for Scottish bars which make the most effective use of cocktails.

We are looking for bars where cocktails and quality drinks are at the heart of the operation.

Judges will look for: n A good understanding of the venue’s market and the role cocktails can play in that market. n Management and key staff with product knowledge – an understanding of brands, mixers, the development of different cocktails and cocktail styles and the ability to mix classic cocktails well. n Commitment to bartender training and development. n A commitment to fostering innovative attitudes and a willingness to experiment with new mixers and ingredients. n Excellence in customer service combined with confidence and style in mixing and presenting cocktails. n Atmosphere conducive to theatre and style in mixing and presenting cocktails. n Good commercial use of cocktails, creative marketing and plans for the further development of the cocktail offer. n Awareness of ongoing developments in the cocktail scene.

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WHISKY BAR OF THE YEAR

SLTN is delighted to embark on the hunt for Scotland’s Whisky Bar of the Year, in partnership with Glenfiddich.

Scotch whisky is enjoying unprecedented success around the world but the Scottish on-trade remains a vital route to market for the country’s national drink.

SCOTLAND’S WHISKY BAR OF THE YEAR WILL SUCCESSFULLY DEMONSTRATE THE FOLLOWING:

SPONSORED BY

In the summer of 1886, with the help of his seven sons and two daughters, William set out to fulfil a lifelong ambition. Together they began building his distillery by hand, stone by stone. After a single year of work it was ready and William named it Glenfiddich, Gaelic for Valley of the Deer.

William’s passion, determination and pioneering spirit continues to guide us. Glenfiddich is one of the few single malt distilleries to remain entirely family owned and is now the World’s Most Awarded Single Malt Scotch Whisky, a true reflection of our founder’s integrity and innovative spirit, passed down through the generations. www.glenfiddich.com

n A balanced range of malts, blends and other Scotch and international whiskies that meets a broad spectrum of budgets and tastes. n A strong commitment to staff training, with particular emphasis on developing whisky knowledge, including the varying characteristics of whiskies distilled around the country and beyond. n The successful exploitation of malt in marketing campaigns and activities like whisky and food matching dinners, educational tastings and promotional ‘flights’. n The use of whisky in the development of the bar’s reputation, interior design (including space devoted to whisky in outlet) and overall food and drink offer.

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NIGHTCLUB OF THE YEAR SPONSORED BY Does your nightclub combine top class DJs and live music with cutting-edge sound and lighting technology and a relevant drinks offer to appeal to today’s clubbers? The SLTN Nightclub of the Year award will go to a club which combines all these elements and more.

Keglevich ‘Real Vodka with Real Fruit’ is crafted by blending awardwinning Keglevich clear Vodka with pure fruit juices; no additives, preservatives or colourings.

For over 30 years in Italy, where the brand was originally created, Keglevich has been the massive brand-leading flavoured vodka.

Now available in Scotland, Keglevich, which has an ABV of 18%-23%, is already gaining huge popularity as a shot, ‘kegibomb’, long drink, cocktail and slushie. #kegibomb

THE judges will CONSIDER: n ENTERTAINMENT AND TECHNOLOGY The use of DJs, live music and other entertainment alongside cutting-edge sound and lighting technology. n DESIGN AND STYLE A stylish and functional interior that leads the way in nightclub design. n DRINKS RANGE AND PRICING An extensive and well-displayed drinks range tailored to the target market. n MARKETING AND PROMOTION Evidence of a successful marketing and promotional strategy undertaken in the past year to reach the nightclub’s target audience. n RESPONSIBLE OPERATING A sound knowledge of legislation covering late opening premises and evidence of responsible operating in line with licensing, security and alcohol legislation.

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COMMUNITY PUB OF THE YEAR SPONSORED BY SLTN is looking to find the very best community pub. The judges will consider aspects of the pub’s offer and the efforts made to build community spirit within the outlet.

The Community Pub of The Year will be a pub of any type which attracts most of its customers from the local area. It will play a significant role within its community, have a relevant drinks range and knowledgeable, friendly staff.

JUDGES WILL BE ASSESSING THE FOLLOWING:

Scottish Licensed Trade News is the leading publication for the drinks, leisure and hospitality industry in Scotland. SLTN has been a must read publication throughout the Scottish trade since its launch in 1964.

n ROLE IN THE COMMUNITY Is the pub a recognised focal point in the community? Does the pub support the wider local community through, for example, charity fundraising?

The only ABC audited publication for the Scottish on-trade, SLTN is the title Scotland’s publicans, bar owners and operators turn to for news on the big issues affecting their businesses.

n THE OFFER What is provided to attract and retain customers? What is the offer over and above drinks, for example: food; televised sports; entertainment; quizzes and games?

www.sltn.co.uk

n LOYALITY Does it encourage customer loyalty and a feeling of involvement through, for example, participation in local pool or darts leagues, or football teams? n PROMOTIONS & EVENTS Does the pub create and properly implement promotions, events, theme nights, etc. which increase the use of the pub and benefit customers? n SERVICES Does it offer services to local groups and associations? n DRINKS Does it offer a comprehensive and locally relevant drinks range, and do the staff have the knowledge and confidence to make recommendations?

If you own or run a great community pub or you know someone who does, fill in the entry form on page 27.

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IT’S GOING TO BE A GREAT NIGHT...

Thursday November 5, 2015 • Hilton, Glasgow

... DON’T MISS IT! 24 SLTNAwardsEntryBrochure_2015.indd 24

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MATTHEW CLARK

AFTER SHOW

PARTY

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RULES & REGULATIONS The SLTN 2015 Awards are open to all relevant members of the Scottish licensed trade, drinks retailing and hospitality industries in each category.

There is no requirement to stock any products or be a member of any organisation. All outlets must be appropriately licensed for the serving of alcohol. All entrants must be aged 18 or over.

Entries or nominations must be received at the offices of SLTN, as detailed within this brochure, by Friday 22 May 2015.

Entrants may enter or be nominated for any number of appropriate categories.

The official entry form is published in the special SLTN 2015 Awards Guide available from SLTN, 11-12 Claremont Terrace, Glasgow G3 7XR. Tel 0141 567 6041. Fax 0141 353 2336. E-mail susan. meikle@peeblesmedia.com. It is also available from the category sponsors.

Extra copies of the entry form are also available from SLTN at the contacts as shown above.

In all cases entries are very much enhanced by the inclusion of a statement in support of the entry or nomination, detailing the special qualities of the entrant. Other supporting material is essential examples of advertising and promotional material, details of any awards already attained, training commendations, thank you letters, good reviews in local publications, guide books and photographs etc - also enhance an entry or nomination.

The overriding judging criterion in each category is how well the entrant does in respect of his, her or their market.

The criteria mentioned in this special SLTN 2015 Awards Brochure give further guidance to the main areas of consideration in each category.

The SLTN 2015 Awards programme welcomes and encourages entries and nominations from members of the trade throughout Scotland - in businesses of all types, sizes and budgets.

In each category, judges will be appointed by SLTN and the category sponsor and may include: representatives of SLTN; representatives of the sponsoring company; expert judges from fields like marketing, foodservice and business development; and experienced and well-regarded professional licensees in Scotland – including former SLTN Awards winners.

Judging will take place in a number of stages. First the original entries will be considered based on supporting material supplied in relation to category criteria, and, at this stage, the judges may seek further information. A shortlist of entrants to be visited will be drawn up and judges will visit each of these shortlisted entrants. With the exception of the Industry Achievement category, where there is a single winner, the judges will choose a maximum of three finalists in each category who will attend the SLTN 2015 Awards dinner and presentation at The Hilton, Glasgow, William Street on November 5, 2015 when the winner and highly commended finalists are announced.

The winner receives the SLTN 2015 Award trophy, and individual category sponsors may supply an additional prize. The winner and the highly commended finalists receive certificates and will feature in the SLTN 2015 Awards public relations programme with news releases sent to appropriate local, national and UK-wide media.

In all cases the judges decide on merit, on the information available to them. The judges’ decision is final and there is no cash alternative to the prizes.

Any amendment to these rules and regulations will be publicised in SLTN. ENTRY DETAILS Entries are very much enhanced by the inclusion of a statement of support of the entry or nomination detailing the special qualities of the entrant.

Support material may include: • Photos - internal and external premises shots are helpful • Menus; drinks tariffs • Reviews from local publications/press cuttings • Thank you letters • Examples of marketing and promotional activity • Training commendations • Copies of appropriate licences where relevant • Personal statements in the categories where individuals – rather than premises – are being awarded Every little helps, so fill out the entry form and submit online/post it along with your supporting material to: SLTN Awards, Freepost PEEBLES MEDIA GROUP or enter online: sltn.co.uk Supporting material may be emailed to: organisers@peeblesmedia.com

Enter online:

WWW.SLTN.CO.UK Entries or nominations must be received by Friday May 22, 2015.

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ENTRY FORM BARTENDER OF THE YEAR

LATE NIGHT BAR OF THE YEAR

SPONSOR: MOLSON COORS

SPONSOR: TSINGTAO

BEER QUALITY AWARD

LICENSEE OF THE YEAR

SPONSOR: WALLACES TCB

SPONSOR: CARLSBERG UK

BEST OUTDOOR AREA

MIXOLOGIST OF THE YEAR

SPONSOR: MAGNERS IRISH CIDER

SPONSOR: PERNOD RICARD UK AND BARNOMADICS

COCKTAIL BAR OF THE YEAR SPONSOR: BACARDI BROWN-FORMAN BRANDS

COMMUNITY PUB OF THE YEAR

NIGHTCLUB OF THE YEAR

SPONSOR: STRATHMORE

CRAFT BEER AWARD

OVER £40 FINE DINING UNDER £40 CASUAL DINING

SPONSOR: EDEN MILL

Friday May 22, 2015.

SPONSOR: KEGLEVICH

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

SPONSOR: SLTN

Entries or nominations must be received by

FAMILY OUTLET OF THE YEAR

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AWARD

SPONSOR: BRITVIC SOFT DRINKS

SPONSOR: DIAGEO GREAT BRITAIN

INDEPENDENT MULTIPLE OPERATOR

SPORTS BAR OF THE YEAR

SPONSOR: SMIRNOFF®

SPONSOR: SKY

INDEPENDENT PUB/BAR OF THE YEAR

UNSUNG HERO

SPONSOR: KOPPARBERG

SPONSOR: HUGH STIRLING LTD

INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

WHISKY BAR OF THE YEAR

SPONSOR: MAXXIUM UK

SPONSOR: GLENFIDDICH

WINE AWARD

Please tick the boxes of all the categories being entered - you may enter as many or as few categories as you wish. However, your entry must include supporting information relevant to each category entered.

Enter online: www.sltn.co.uk or download, complete and post your entry form and support material to SLTN AWARDS, Freepost PEEBLES MEDIA GROUP.

SPONSOR: INVERARITY MORTON

• Name of person being entered in the SLTN Awards 2015 ________________________________________________________________________________ • Name and address of premises (the pub, hotel, restaurant etc) ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Website: ________________________________________________________________________ Twitter:__________________________________________________________________________ Facebook: ______________________________________________________________________ • Daytime phone number and email address if available of the entrant Tel: _____________________________________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________________________________ • Name and address of nominator (if different from above) _____________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ • Daytime telephone number and email address of nominator Tel: _____________________________________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________________________________ Further information on how to enter can found opposite.

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Gillian McKenzie l Editor SLTN l 0141 567 6071 Lucie Cooney l Sales Director SLTN l 0141 567 6021 Susan Meikle l Events Organiser l 0141 567 6041

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