In an age of digital distractions and busy schedules, more than a quarter of Brits (27%) say they feel isolated from their local community. However, recent research has found a simple way of rebuilding those lost connections… and it’s served with a side of mushy peas.
New research from the UK’s leading pub company and brewer, Greene King, reveals that the simple joy of heading to the local pub for a fish and chips lunch could be the ultimate remedy for community disconnection. The iconic British dish has been crowned the nation’s favourite lunch (32%), and the local pub remains our top place to socialise (29%), beating the likes of live music events and community spaces.
As a response to these findings, Greene King has partnered with the Eden Project for The Big Lunch (7–8 June) — a nationwide event designed to bring neighbours and communities together to connect and build friendships. In fact, when asked about the most important part of a social gathering, a staggering 76% of people agreed that food takes the top spot, highlighting just how connected the nation is through its shared love of food and its power to bring people together.
With this in mind, Greene King is on a mission to bring the community back together one dish at a time by supporting The Big Lunch, helping people rediscover the joy of shared moments, whether it’s with old friends or new faces from across the street.
Entering the second year of its partnership, Greene King will be hosting events across the UK in many of its 1,600 managed pubs, including give aways and community get togethers throughout June. To find out what is going on in your area, visit here.
Andrew Bush, chief experience officer at Greene King, said: “Our research shows that 76% of the UK believes that food is the most important part of a social gathering. And with third of people choosing to socialise in the pub, it really does show the important role that both of these things can play in bringing people together.
“However, even surrounded by huge communities it’s easy to feel alone, which is why The Big Lunch is the perfect opportunity for connection – whether it’s with neighbours, old friends, or someone new. We encourage everyone to check out the website to see what’s happening at their local Greene King pub and join us for great food and even better company.”
Lindsey Brummitt, Eden Project pogramme director responsible for The Big Lunch, said: “This marks our second year partnering with Greene King for The Big Lunch, with their support again offering people a wonderful chance to get together, share delicious food and make new friends in our communities. Following last year’s success, which saw communities across the UK come together to share friendship, food and fun, we hope even more people join in The Big Lunch this year on 7 and 8 June!
“The Big Lunch is a fantastic way to reach out and make valuable social connections, especially given over a quarter of people in the UK (27%) report a sense of disconnection as Greene King’s recent research has discovered. With Greene King sharing our values, we’re excited to partner for another year of bringing people together to see the new friendships The Big Lunch sparks again this year!”
To find out what is going on in your area, visit: https://www.greeneking.co.uk/our-company/greene-king-for-good/closer-communities
