Modern pub furniture and decor could be one way to help local boozers do better, based on recent figures from the Campaign for Real Ale.
During the past six months, CAMRA report that the rate of pub closures has fallen from 27 per week to 21, which is positive news during an ongoing troubled period for the industry.
Within the figures, one high street pub has closed each week on average, while 231 rural pubs and 317 in suburban areas closed their doors over the course of the full six months.
However, in some categories there has actually been a net gain in premises, and this is where modern pub furniture and interior design schemes take on new importance.
CAMRA report an increase during the past six months in "the number of branded food pubs and modern style pubs and bars" - an indication that a more contemporary atmosphere may help local pubs to attract more customers through their doors.
More than 1,500 pubs nationwide have now been listed as Assets of Community Value, through the work of CAMRA and local campaign groups, which gives them extra protection against demolition or conversion for other uses.
Colin Valentine, chairman of CAMRA, said: "It's vital that people build on this positive news by supporting their locals as much as possible. It can be as simple as visiting pubs more regularly ... and telling friends and family about the great pubs you have found.
"If you've got a valued pub near you, consider linking up with your local community to ensure it benefits from any planning protection available."
But it's important for pubs to cater for the tastes of their local customers too, and investing in some modern pub furniture is one way to tap into the best performing segment of the market.
That doesn't have to mean abandoning traditional bentwood furniture, bar stools and poseur tables; and dark wood can have a place in contemporary bar furniture too.
For an up to date atmosphere though, consider a mix of tall, normal and coffee tables to provide different heights, with appropriate seating and at least a couple of comfy leather sofas for daytime trade.