Yorkshire-born app aims to act as a ‘search engine’ for pubs and punters

A new Yorkshire-born app targeting pub lovers across the UK is set to launch later next month.

Wotzon works by acting as a ‘search engine’ for users looking to find a local pub, no matter where in the UK users are located, and also gives pubs a chance to promote themselves and their latest deals or events.

Despite contributing over £23 bn to the British economy every year, the number of community pubs has been falling. At the end of 2015, figures from the Campaign for Real Ale show that the number of pubs were at the lowest level in a decade, with an average of 20 pubs closing permanently every week.

These figures encouraged the team behind Wotzon, who are based in Ossett, to create a new app that brings together punters and pubs.

Paul Norton, founder of Wotzon, said: “Pubs are part of the British culture and to see so many closing down is disheartening. Being a real ale lover myself, I saw a gap in the market for a search engine that could help me find which pubs have my favourite ale on draught.

“Local pubs should be part of the community, our app can help it become a hub once again. By connecting directly with potential customers, pubs can increase their footfall, especially those that are out of the way and don’t typically get spotted by new customers.

“Whether customers are looking for a regular quiz night in their area or a pub that sells their favourite drink while on holiday, Wotzon can bring up a host of suitable establishments for them to head to and try.”

The app supports both pubgoers and the establishment. Customers can use the app to discover information on nearby pubs, while enterprising pubs can attract more customers.

Sally Hastewell of Brewers Pride, the pub in Ossett where Norton came up with the idea for Wotzon, added: “We’re over the moon that Paul has made the app he spoke of a reality, it really opens the market for pubs like ours who are hidden away from the main roads.”

The app also connects brands with both consumers and pubs, allowing them to see new opportunities to promote their products.

Wotzon has already partnered with a range of brands, including Crabbie’s, Red Square and Dunkertons.

The app will officially launch on the 7th February 2017 at the Pub17 Conference at the Olympia Exhibition Centre, London.

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