ALMR 'disappointed' Healey has overlooked supermarket issue
The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) has welcomed John Healey's proposals for the industry - but hit out at the minister for overlooking the impact of "irresponsible" supermarket deals.
Nick Bish, the group's chief executive, said: "We are disappointed... there is no reference to the unfair competition pubs face from pocket money prices, deep discounting and irresponsible promotions in supermarkets.
"That is the last piece of the jigsaw to be addressed and we urge the government to complete the picture."
On the pubco issue, Bish backed the plans saying pubs needed a "hand up to ensure that they have the flexibility and freedom to retail profitably and responsibly".
He added: "Today's announcement shows that the government recognises that regulatory intervention may be required to deliver that fair and open market."
He said the group was "delighted" the government was finally taking the industry "seriously".
But he pointed out the proposals were the same as those put forward during last summer's meditation, adding: "It remains a deep disappointment that more progress could not be made to address them at that stage."
Meanwhile the British Beer & Pub Association said Healey had come up with some "interesting ideas".
Chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: "There are some interesting and positive ideas in these proposals that will benefit community pubs. We very much welcome the announcements and support for Pub is The Hub and proposed changes to PPS 4 to make it easier in terms of planning for pubs to diversify.
"We look forward to progressing discussions on this agenda with government over the next 12 months. In particular, we are determined to demonstrate the positive impact of the Industry Code on improving relationships with tenants and reforming the way the tie operates to the benefit of everyone who works in our sector.
"Our efforts are focused on delivering that and continuing to support and develop the great British Pub which is at the heart of our business and community life in Britain."
