The news of Glasgow’s Ubiquitous Chip being sold has been met with such hysteria that it’s been hard to avoid.
Even those of us who don’t live in the city or who have never visited the restaurant couldn’t avoid the huge storm and outpouring of complaints on social media. So many people are devastated that the much-loved ‘Chip’ is changing hands.
After 51 years in Glasgow, the Clydesdale family has sold Ubiquitous Chip – along with its two sister restaurants, Hanoi Bikeshop and Stravaigin – to a subsidiary of UK pub chain Greene King.
All three are much-loved eateries in the city’s West End, and it’s understandable that the reaction has been so monumental, given they’re all such a staple of Glasgow’s food scene.
However, as successful as they may seem, it has been an incredibly tough time for business owners in recent years, especially in the hospitality sector.
And while Covid restrictions appear to be all but gone for good now (touch wood), the ongoing cost of living crisis means the sector continues to face significant challenges.
Ubiquitous Chip’s owners have previously spoken about the struggle to recruit staff in a post-pandemic world. It’s not surprising that some people have decided to jump ship and move to industries perceived as more stable.
I get why people are disappointed when a much-loved local business changes hands and is bought by a larger entity. Customers may worry the quality and customer service they’re used to will suddenly vanish.
It’s a valid concern, but I’ve been shocked at just how big, and how negative, the backlash has been. Hordes of people have dubbed the sale “depressing”, “dreadful”, and “the end of an era”.
The Chip and its sister restaurants have actually been bought by Metropolitan Pub Company, a subsidiary of Greene King that’s run independently by Michael Horan – who once lived in Glasgow’s West End.
Horan has committed to continuing the Clydesdale family’s legacy and stressed that he wants to provide world-class hospitality. They plan to invest, improve, and even bring to life some of the previous owners’ unused ideas.
People don’t like change and can be quick to criticise without knowing the facts.
At the end of the day, this is a business – and owners have the right to do what’s best for them. Sometimes that means selling to a larger corporation.
I’d be really interested to know how many of those upset on social media have actually visited the restaurants in the last few years.
People love the idea of independent businesses on their doorstep but often choose big chains or online giants for convenience. That’s fine – but it’s hypocritical to enjoy that convenience, then berate local business owners for “selling out”.
We need to support our local businesses if we don’t want to lose them – but we also need to stop judging those who make tough decisions to move on.
Eurovision Fever Could Be a Jackpot for Scotland
The announcement that the annual Eurovision Song Contest will be hosted in the UK has me singing one tune – Money, Money, Money.
Now that the UK will host the musical extravaganza, another contest is underway – as UK cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen all vie to become the host city.
The winner takes it all – media exposure, tourism, and economic boosts from hosting such a large-scale glam-boree.
Glasgow seems to be Scotland’s frontrunner thanks to the OVO Hydro, the country’s largest entertainment venue, which even featured in the Netflix Eurovision comedy.
Hotel prices have already soared to £600 a night at just the thought of Glasgow hosting.
While the benefits are big, hosting does come with costs. When Azerbaijan hosted in 2012, it reportedly cost £48 million.
But if Scotland lands it and plays it right, the returns could be worth it. Fingers crossed we say thank you for the music – and the money.
It Made Me Laugh
Snacked in the Face
I’ve always appreciated a business that reacts quickly to a customer issue and limits the social media fallout.
Elgin City Football Club nailed it after a fan’s half-time snack break turned into a viral moment – when they got smacked by the ball during a match against Queen of the South.
The club posted an appeal for the fan to come forward and offered free refreshments at the next match.
The gesture went viral, earning 16,000+ likes. Proof that even mishaps can become great PR with the right approach.
It Made Me Weep
Small Business Confidence Takes Another Hit
More disheartening – yet unsurprising – news from the Federation of Small Businesses.
Confidence in Scotland has dropped, with 91% of small business owners saying they’ve seen rising costs in Q2, and 6 in 10 running below capacity.
The Recovery Loan Scheme extension is a positive step, but more measures are needed to ensure businesses feel heard, helped – and hopeful.
