Online tastings part of London wine school’s lockdown plan
WEST LONDON WINE SCHOOL THINKS OUTSIDE THE (WINE) BOX TO KEEP BUSINESS AFLOAT
COUNTLESS family businesses are struggling in these uncertain times, none so much as those in the hospitality sector.
With restaurants, bars and pubs forced to close owners are having to think outside the box to help them keep money coming in – and one West London business has come up with a gem.
The West London Wine School struggled when this crisis first hit, with booking for the school decreasing dramatically before it was forced to temporarily close, saying “we could not in good conscience continue operating when our business relies on groups of people congregating”.
However, the small family-owned business in Fulham had a brilliant idea about how to continue bringing in enough money to keep the business afloat.
Rather than asking for donations and support from customers, they’re asking people to buy a gift voucher, able to be redeemed when the school re-opens.
This will allow them to gain money now to maintain the school and pay tutor wages during this uncertain time, while offering customers the chance to come and enjoy the school at a later date.
The gift vouchers are valid for two years, and the GoFundMe campaign has already raised £7,288 by loyal customers.
One fan commented after donating £250: “Jimmy and his team bring a passion and insight to the the world of wines.
“Every tasting that I have attended over the years has been a pure joy and I look forward to many more when these troubled times are past. I would urge you to give your support.”
The campaign has been such a success that it’s allowed the wine school to run virtual tastings, where the wine is delivered right to people’s doors.
The school closed on Wednesday, March 18, and while the website initially stated it hoped to reopen on April 6 this is looking less and less likely.