Smokefree Businesses in Tower Hamlets

Carluccio`s

Manager of Carluccio’s at Canary Wharf Emanuela Diamonde said: “We introduced a no smoking policy in April last year and we did think it might affect our business but it hasn’t. It has had no affect at all on the number of people we have in whatsoever.

“A few people commented initially but people seem very pleased now. I think they prefer it. A place is all about the atmosphere. People come here for the food and the ambiance and they don’t want that spoiled by smoke.”

A smoker herself, Emanuela added that she much prefers working in a smokefree environment.

“It is better for our staff. They are here sometimes for ten hours a day and it is important that they are in a healthy environment. We still have a smoking area outside but we are all pleased with being smokefree inside.”

Big Chill Bar

General manager of The Big Chill off Dray Walk, Sandra Arvidsson, said: “It will be good for people’s health generally. I think some people will smoke less because they’ll be less tempted.

“Our customers are fully aware of the new laws and we are also up to speed. Businesses have a duty to find out about the legislation to make sure they are prepared for it. Customers have mentioned it but no-one has moaned about it – I think lots of people are pleased the new law is coming in, they think it will be more pleasant.”

The area outside the bar will be used for smokers and Sandra said she hoped people would have chance to get used to the ban over the summer months.

“I don’t think it will affect businesses as such because it’s across the board so it’s a level playing field, “she added.

Giraffe

The Giraffe restaurant in Spitalfields is smokefree already – the whole chain has been since the business started in 1998.

A spokesman said: “The restaurant in Spitalfields has had no problem with this and the majority of customers comment how wonderful it is to enjoy a meal in a clean, smokefree environment, especially those with small children.”

If your business has already gone smokefree and you would like to feature on this page, email smokefree@towerhamlets.gov.uk