Staff at Britain's beloved Wetherspoons pubs have been using a sophisticated system of secret codes to communicate about everything from difficult customers to emergency situations, according to revelations from current and former employees.
The Covert Communication System
Former team member Meg Pugh recently lifted the lid on the covert operational language used across JD Wetherspoon's 826 establishments nationwide. The codes allow staff to discreetly alert colleagues to various situations without causing alarm or confrontation with customers.
When Customers Become 'Absolute Nightmares'
One of the most frequently used codes is 'customer number 99', which staff deploy when dealing with particularly challenging patrons. "If a customer was being an absolute nightmare, we'd say we had a customer 99," Pugh explained, describing how this signal would prompt managers to intervene or provide backup support.
Beyond Difficult Customers
The coding system extends far beyond handling troublesome drinkers. Staff use specific numbers to indicate various scenarios:
- Code 100: Activated when someone requires first aid assistance
- Customer 98: Signals that an individual has been barred from the premises
- Customer 96: Indicates someone is banned but attempting to enter regardless
Keeping Operations Smooth
Additional codes help maintain the seamless operation that Wetherspoons is known for. Staff might call out 'can I get a 101?' when urgent assistance is needed at the bar during peak hours. The system represents an unspoken layer of professionalism that customers rarely witness.
Industry-Wide Practice
While Wetherspoons has developed its own specific coding system, the practice of using discreet communication is common throughout the hospitality industry. Many pubs and restaurants employ similar strategies to manage challenging situations while maintaining customer service standards.
The revelation provides fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes coordination required to run Britain's favourite budget pub chain, demonstrating that there's much more to pulling a pint than meets the eye.
