The referendum has overtaken football to become the main topic of conversation over a pint, according to publicans.
Colin Cameron, owner of the city’s Masada, Kirkgate and Bridge Bars and director of the Aberdeen City and Shire Licensed Trade Association, said there had been a marked increase in political debate – particularly as the margins in the polls had narrowed.
His comments come as some pubs across Scotland reported an 20% increase in business – either from customers who want to air and share their views or from others seeking to avoid the debate at home.
The boost coincides with national broadcasters including the BBC, ITV and SKY News using Scottish pubs and bars as locations to test the mood of the nation – giving the Scottish licensed trade increased profile throughout Britain.
Mr Cameron said: “The last couple of weeks we have seen a heightened interested from customers on the debate.
“When it was a 60/40 split a few months ago, there wasn’t the same level of interest – now it has become neck and neck, the referendum is beating football as the topic which is most frequently under discussion.
“Whether the debate is bringing more people to the pub, the jury is out – but I will expect it to be more busy on Thursday with some people using the excuse of having to go out and vote for going to the pub too.
“And if it is a yes vote, we will see more people out.”
Paul Waterson, chief executive of the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, agreed the referendum had been good for business.
He said: “Scotland’s licensed trade premises provide the original social network and there has been no truer statement than in the run up to the referendum as people chose to engage, or not, in debate with each other in their locals.
“The pub is the heart of many communities and holds a vital role in the economy, therefore it feels fitting that the licensed trade plays its part in people’s decision making process in Scotland’s future.”