Armed robbers target NSW clubs, pubs

Armed robberies are significantly down in NSW but police say they remain worried bandits are continuing to target pubs and clubs.

Figures released by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics reveal the incidence of robbery offences, including those where a weapon was used, has dropped by more than 60 per cent since 2001.

Despite this, though, police say hold ups at pubs and clubs remain a problem.

"If we look at the numbers in 2013, more than 85 per cent of businesses robbed were hotels, pubs and clubs, NSW Deputy Police Commissioner Nick Kaldas said on Tuesday.

"In 2012, they made up more than 88 per cent."

John Green from the Australian Hotels Association NSW said the nature of the industry made it an easy victim.

"The hours hotels and pubs operate, them being a predominantly cash business, having multiple entry points ... make them a target," he said.

NSW Police and industry bodies have launched a written guide to help reduce the problem.