JD Wetherspoon to close down social media accounts amid trolling concerns

16 April 2018 by
JD Wetherspoon to close down social media accounts amid trolling concerns

Pub chain JD Wetherspoon has announced it will close down all social media accounts amid concerns about trolling, personal data and the addictive nature of platforms.

The company, which has almost 900 pubs across the UK and Ireland, will close down all accounts related to individual pubs and its head office with immediate effect, it was announced this morning.

The company said the move follows the bad publicity surrounding social media, including the trolling of MPs and others, especially those from religious or ethnic minorities.

JD Wetherspoon said it has also taken into account recent concerns regarding the misuse of personal data and the addictive nature of social media.

Chairman and founder Tim Martin said: "We are going against conventional wisdom that these platforms are a vital component of a successful business.

"I don't believe that closing these accounts will affect our business whatsoever, and this is the overwhelming view of our pub managers.

"It's becoming increasingly obvious that people spend too much time on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, and struggle to control the compulsion.

"We will still be as vocal as ever through our Wetherspoon News magazine, as well as keeping the press updated at all times.

"We will also be maintaining our website and the Wetherspoon app and encourage customers to get in touch with us via our website or by speaking with the manager at their local pub."

Wetherspoon's pre-tax profits up 20.6% but boss predicts slower growth>>

‘A no deal Brexit will see a fall in food prices' JD Wetherspoon boss claims>>

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