Graeme Downie Visits The Commercial Inn to Address Crucial Election Issues Impacting Local Pub

Graeme Downie, the Labour Party candidate for Dunfermline and Dollar, visited The Commercial Inn, a community pub in the heart of Dunfermline, on Friday 21st June to discuss the pressing challenges faced by pubs and breweries with local patrons and staff. This visit underscores Graeme’s commitment to supporting Dunfermline’s pub industry, which is a vital part of the local community and economy.

The pub is owned by UK’s leading community pub group, Admiral Taverns, and is run by passionate and dedicated licensee, Andrew Black.

During the visit, Graeme met with Andrew and Admiral Taverns CEO, Chris Jowsey as well as employees and pub goers to gain an understanding of the issues currently impacting pubs. This also gave Graeme the chance to see the different ways that pubs in Dunfermline cannot just survive but thrive and be the focal point around which renewed economic growth in the area can be based.

Graeme Downie expressed a strong commitment to addressing these issues, stating;

“Pubs are the heart of our communities, providing not just a place to enjoy a pint, but also a social hub that supports mental wellbeing and community spirit. In so many way pubs provide the social glue that keeps the community in Dunfermline together. I look forward if I am elected to working with my local pubs, including Admiral Taverns and The Commercial Inn, as well as the British Beer and Pub Association to ensure that these vital institutions thrive in the face of current challenges.”

The visit concluded with Graeme serving pints behind the bar and engaging with staff and patrons to hear their views and concerns. This hands-on approach demonstrates Graeme’s genuine interest in understanding and tackling the issues facing the local pub industry.

Commenting on the visit, Chris Jowsey, CEO at Admiral Taverns, commented: “It was a pleasure to host Graeme Downie at The Commercial Inn, Dunfermline to meet our fantastic licensee, Andrew and discuss the important work they are doing in the community. Community pubs are an integral part of the UK’s social tapestry, and it was a great opportunity to discuss how changing the tax and regulatory regime could allow our industry to drive growth across Scotland and the wider UK.”