Ticketless Brits will be heading to the pub to watch the Olympics

Two in three Brits are expected to watch the London 2012 Olympics in the pub if they fail to secure tickets, according to a recent poll.

The survey of 1,000 people by pubco Orchid Group found that more than two-thirds (67%) of those not attending one of the events in the capital will head to their local pub to catch the sports action.

The results of the study point to a massive commercial opportunity for the pub sector to reap the benefits of the Games.

Simon Dodd, Orchid commercial director, said that watching the Olympics in the pub is a great way to soak up the atmosphere and help make the occasion one to remember.

"Many people were not successful in the ticket draw, and others could not afford to travel to London to see the Games, so heading to the local is a far easier, and cheaper, option," he added.

"Pubs have traditionally been the perfect place for watching big sporting events, and we expect the London 2012 Olympics to really inspire the country and bring together people from across communities to share in the atmosphere and display their patriotism."

Orchid is expected to show all the live action, focusing on the most popular events, as voted for by respondents. Volleyball, particularly the beach variety, was top of the list followed by basketball, the men's 100m final, and gymnastics.

London 2012 - are you ready for the Olympics? >>

Your guide to profiting from the London 2012 Olympics >>

Orchid takes 5th in 25 best companies to work for >>

Orchid pubs to sell Daily Express and OK! magazine >>

By Janie Stamford

E-mail your comments to Janie Stamford here.

If you have something to say on this story or anything else join the debate at Table Talk - Caterer's new networking forum. Go to www.caterersearch.com/tabletalk

Caterersearch.com jobs

Looking for a new job? Find your next job here with Caterersearch.com jobs