Brits Dream of Running Fictional Businesses, Survey Reveals

Brits Reveal Top Fictional Businesses They'd Love to Run

If you have ever fantasised about taking over Peggy Mitchell's role and managing the legendary Queen Vic pub from EastEnders, you are certainly not alone. A recent survey conducted by insurance specialists Premierline has uncovered the on-screen enterprises that Britons would most desire to own, with soap opera pubs emerging as clear favourites.

Soap Pubs Lead the Pack in Popularity

The Queen Vic secured votes from ten percent of the 2,000 participants in the survey, just edging out The Woolpack from Emmerdale, which attracted nine percent, and The Rovers Return Inn from Coronation Street, with eight percent. Other highly ranked fictional businesses include Trotters Independent Trading from Only Fools and Horses at ten percent, Scoops Ahoy from Stranger Things at seven percent, and Agence Grateau from Emily in Paris at five percent.

Wonka Industries Tops the List Nationwide

However, the number one choice for Brits wishing to take control is Wonka Industries, the chocolate factory that garnered more than one in six votes, totalling eighteen percent. Central Perk from Friends followed closely with seventeen percent, while a bold twelve percent expressed a desire to manage Fawlty Towers, the chaotic hotel operated by Basil and Sybil Fawlty, or Stark Industries from Iron Man.

Motivations Behind the Business Dreams

When questioned about their reasons for wanting to run these businesses, thirty-seven percent of respondents stated they believed it would be amusing, over a quarter said they would relish the drama, and eleven percent felt they could outperform the current manager. A spokesperson from Premierline commented that it is unsurprising soap operas and well-known on-screen businesses dominate the list, as they are familiar, community-oriented, and resemble workplaces people already comprehend.

Reality Check on Business Ownership Risks

Nevertheless, the spokesperson cautioned that these fictional favourites often overlook the real-world challenges business owners encounter daily. In reality, operating a pub, shop, or hospitality venture involves managing significant risks, such as property damage from dramatic incidents like fires, public liability issues, staff illness, theft, and cash-flow disruptions. Without appropriate insurance, even a minor event can swiftly become a costly obstacle.

Entrepreneurial Aspirations Among Brits

The survey also revealed that nine percent of participants have gone as far as drafting a business plan for an on-screen enterprise, while twenty-nine percent have invested time in contemplating how they would manage a fictional company. A staggering seventy-four percent of Brits indicated they would abandon their current job immediately to assume control of one of these firms.

This inclination stems from various factors: sixty-five percent of respondents aspire to be their own boss someday, ten percent are prepared to depart and launch a business soon, and twenty percent have considered writing a business plan but have not yet done so. Conversely, twenty-seven percent expressed contentment with their current role, with only two percent claiming they live for their job and six percent admitting they detest their job and are eager to leave.

Insights on the Entrepreneurial Spirit

The Premierline spokesperson added that it is no shock many Brits dream of starting their own business, often driven by desires for freedom, flexibility, and transforming a passion into a sustainable venture. Whether running a café, launching an online shop, or going freelance, the enthusiasm for entrepreneurship appears stronger than ever. However, they emphasised that the practical aspects of business management, such as protecting equipment and premises with adequate insurance, are frequently neglected in the initial excitement, yet are crucial for avoiding financial setbacks.