Last week one sunny afternoon, I took the opportunity to visit several of the pubs in Aberconwy (I know what you're thinking, it was a difficult task but someone had to do it!)
It wasn't a social occasion however. I was accompanied by William Lees-Jones (of JW Lees pubs) and William Robinson (MD of Frédéric Robinson Brewery).
Both are long established companies that have made considerable investments of time and money into their Aberconwy presence, their staff and tenants over recent years.
I wanted to see for myself how their investment model worked, the relationships they have built with their teams - and most importantly, how those establishments were coping and preparing for the easing of the lockdown.
I learned much. Some offer accommodation as well as food and of course, great beer! The relationships with the different teams were strong and personal - but they are all ready to trade.
They have put alot of thought into the venues to make sure customers and staff are safe (and even seen some service improvements).
Some like the Mulberry are larger and modern. Others are smaller and older, like the Ty Gwyn and have had to think hard about flow and making space work safely.
But perhaps what impressed most of all is there are good businesses with good people here in Aberconwy, making a go of things despite these tough times.
We'll get through this.
(and I might have to go back, out of work hours, purely for research... )