Smoking will be completely prohibited in any enclosed public space, whether bars, cafes, restaurants, or clubs, starting in mid-March 2016, 45 days after the publication of the new anti-smoking law, declared constitutional by the CCR, in the Official Gazette.
In the first few months, it will be worse for the industry because there will be a certain impact and some smokers will no longer go out as often, estimates Dragos Petrescu, president of the HORA Restaurant Employers’ Association and one of the largest restaurant operators in Romania with brands like Caru’ cu Bere, Hanul lui Manuc, Hanul Berarilor, Pescarus, City Grill, and Buongiorno. He believes that smoke-free restaurants will attract a segment of customers who did not visit as often specifically because of the smoke.
Petrescu observed that in neighboring countries that adopted this measure years ago, after a small setback for 2-3 months, customers returned to restaurants.
He specified that at the restaurants he manages, he is already preparing “decent” conditions for specially designated smoking areas. At the entrance, there will be a type of gas heater that will warm 2-3 tables, and blankets will be available at each of the 5-10 permanent spots for those who wish to smoke.
Petrescu estimates that of the 50% of smoking customers, less than a third are heavy smokers, with the rest being only occasional.
On the other hand, the cigarette sales business within the HoReCa sector could be affected, Petrescu noted.
One of the largest hoteliers in Romania, Mohammad Murad, owner of the Phoenicia chain, which owns more than 15 restaurants, does not believe the number of customers will decrease, but fears that in the absence of cigarettes, they will shorten their time at the table and give up part of their consumption. This would mean a decrease in consumption of about 10%, estimates the head of the Federation of Romanian Tourism Employers, FPTR.
Catalin Mahu, owner of the La Mama chain, expects a decrease in sales because the customer will spend less time in the restaurant, which will automatically mean a decrease in the average bill.
La Mama already has two restaurants exclusively for non-smokers, one in the Feeria commercial gallery in Baneasa Mall and the other near the Dinamo stadium, where smoking has been banned for a month. Compared to the months when smoking was allowed, the number of customers has decreased by 2-3%.
Sorin Mihai, manager of the Piatra Alba restaurant in Drumul Taberei, observed that on weekends more families with children come to eat and believes that after the smoking ban, their number will increase.
Remus Nica, former manager of two restaurants in Paris and founder of two clubs in Bucharest’s Old Town, Vintage and Finnish, already knows from his experience in France that in both clubs and restaurants, people will go outside to smoke or smoke less, but they will not give up going out for entertainment.
Source: Profit
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the smoking ban take effect?
The law comes into force in mid-March 2016, 45 days after its publication in the Official Gazette.
How will restaurant consumption be affected?
Experts estimate a potential 10% drop in consumption as customers may spend less time at tables, though an increase in non-smoking patrons is expected to balance this over time.
What solutions are restaurant owners implementing for smokers?
Many owners are setting up heated outdoor areas equipped with blankets and tables to provide comfortable spaces for customers who wish to smoke.