Publican sacked for refusing to serve pints

A licensee has had his tenancy agreement revoked because he refused to sell beer by the pint.

Nigel France was given notice to quit the King's Head in Southwold, Suffolk, by Adnams brewery, less than three months after taking over the pub.

Mr France preferred to sell half pints of beer in 12 oz glasses or beer in two pint jugs, because it led to less spillage. This meant his table tops and floors were less sticky and stained.

He said: "I am absolutely stunned. I was courted by Adnams. I wasn't looking for a job there. I haven't served pints for 13 years in pubs. Adnams knew my stance before I took the pub.

"My business partner Gordon McNeil is a first class chef and left a very well-paid job to come on board with me as did his pastry chef. Now they are both out of a job. Gordon and I were given 21 days notice and we are now actively looking for another unit to go to."

According to Mr France, representatives of the brewery asked him to revert back to pints but he refused.

"Steve Manning from the tied estate came to see me and was absolutely charming. I don't think the men in charge at the brewery were aware of my views on pints. I have no problem with autocratic decisions, but I find it galling because they knew my views right from the start."

Steve Manning, head of Adnams' tied estate, said: "We are a traditional brewer, specialising in the production of cask beer and operating traditional pubs. The pint measure is synonymous with this style of operation and fits very comfortably with our brand values."

Mr Manning confirmed that he had offered to accommodate Mr France's views by allowing him to serve the two-pint jugs as well reinstating the pint glasses. According to Mr Manning, the licensee refused, indicating that the matter was "not negotiable". Adnams then sought to activate a break clause in the Tenancy Agreement.