By Annette Shailer
A survey of NSW pub owners has revealed strong growth in food sales and a decline in gaming revenue.
The October survey by Colliers International Research showed 25 per cent of respondents believed food sales would be their primary growth area, with 58 per cent optimistic about generating more revenue through food.
Respondents said they believe gaming is to further decline, with 21 per cent expecting revenue form gaming to decrease by 10 to 15 per cent over the next financial year.
Bar sales still top the list as the reported top revenue generator, with gaming revenue second, food sales third and bottle shop sales fourth.
Colliers International Hotels and Leisure executive, Colin Revelman, said the results reflected factors affecting the industry including legislation, the economy and the credit climate, but that the outlook for 2009 was optimistic.