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In an increasingly digital world, a strong social media presence can make all the difference for pubs looking to stand out in a crowded market. With platforms like Instagram and TikTok shaping where and how people choose to spend their time (and money), working with influencers has become a valuable marketing tool for hospitality businesses.

In this article, Josh Wood, CEO of CJ Digital, a digital marketing agency specialising in the hospitality sector, shares practical advice for pub owners looking to build effective, authentic influencer partnerships that actually deliver results.

As a pub owner, you're likely no stranger to the power of social media. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook offer unparalleled opportunities to reach new customers, build brand awareness, and drive sales. One increasingly popular and effective way to tap into social media's potential is by partnering with influencers.

Did you know that the global influencer marketing industry is expected to hit $32.55 billion in 2025, a substantial increase from $24 billion in 2024? With social media becoming the world’s largest advertising platform and brands increasing investments in influencer collaborations, consumer behavior has significantly shifted.

Therefore, as a pub owner, you must know how to work effectively with social media influencers to promote your business and gain an organic following. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Choose Influencers Who Align With Your Brand

Look for influencers that align with your brand values and target audience or those who have worked in a similar niche. Collaborate with the ones who have a genuine interest in pubs, food, and drink. Check their past posts and engagement so that you know you’ll receive the maximum benefit from this collaboration.

2. Be Clear About What You Have to Offer

Whether it's a free meal, a discount code, or a behind-the-scenes tour, make sure the influencer knows what they'll receive in exchange for promoting your pub. Be specific about what you're looking for in terms of content, reels, or a collaborative post.

3. Plan Everything in Advance

Set boundaries and make a plan of everything in advance, so that the influencers know what is and what isn’t allowed. By making a plan beforehand, you can make sure that you are on the same page so that there are no last-minute disruptions. 

4. Focus on Building a Meaningful Relationship

Influencers usually have a very loyal, organic following; try to build a meaningful relationship to charm their audience. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the content influencers are creating about your pub, and engage with it by liking, commenting, and sharing. This helps build trust with the influencer and extends the reach of their content. PS collaborative posts and reels are the way to go in 2025!

5. Track the Success of Your Influencer Partnerships

Use analytics tools to monitor the performance of influencer generated or collaborative content. This will help you understand what's working for your pub, what's not, and make better and more informed decisions about future partnerships.

Tapping Into Social Media Success

By following these simple tips, you can build successful partnerships and collaborations with some of the top social media influencers that drive real results for your pub. Remember to stay flexible and creative, be open to new ideas, and always keep your target audience in mind! 

Find out more about CJ Digital's range of digital marketing services for hospitality businesses at cjdigital.co