The smoking ban is changing the pub's social and cultural context - and there is a positive, profitable upside for publicans. "Families and non-smokers are far more willing to spend more time and money in pubs over leisurely meals, without fear of inhaling other people's smoke. Pubs that don't serve food should really think hard about doing so in future." Punch Taverns, which owns 520 pubs north of the border, says that food sales throughout its Scottish estate have shown some growth. It also believes customer numbers have risen since the ban started. Punch Taverns customer services director Francis Patton says: "We are delighted with the way in which our retailers, pub managers and customers have embraced this change in the law. Compliance throughout our estate has been excellent and retailers' feedback suggests new customers being attracted into our pubs post-ban. Food sales have also grown."