Martha Gallagher-Scovle, bar manager at the Prince of Wales pub in Hammersmith, told the BBC Fifa’s U-turn on kick-off timing meant “everything felt very up in the air”.
“We had just sorted staffing and then it was like ‘oh, you’re going to have to change everything you just spent the last 12 hours sorting out,'” the 20-year-old added.
She said people had already been coming into the pub this morning to change their bookings back, and ask what happens if the times change again.
President of the UK Bartender’s Guild (UKBG) Claudia Carrozzi told the BBC hospitality staff working until 05:00 should be given plenty of notice, breaks and it should be considered how they get home.
“Planning is key,” she said.
While pubs have only had since Thursday to prepare and Friday night’s mixed messaging over start time may have confused matters, Carrozzi said pubs may have already had a “contingency plan” in place.
She said it is important customers remember people working in pubs during the match are “going the extra mile” and need to be treated with respect.
“Without the staff, this celebration couldn’t happen.”
Police have already criticised the timing of the decision on pub opening hours made only days before the match.
The National Police Chiefs’ Council said the “late announcement” meant officers would have to be taken away from other duties and work longer hours, even though the team’s likely route through the tournament had been known for a considerable time.
It asked that fans drink within sensible limits and be considerate while watching the match.