Enterprise lessees defend their pubco

Several Enterprise lessees have defended the pubco in emails to the Morning Advertiser amid criticism about how it operates.

Attacks on pubcos and the beer tie have intensified recently. Criticism of Enterprise has centred on comments from a group of disgruntled Sheffield licensees.

A number of positive emails have also been sent to Peter Luff MP, chairman of the Business & Enterprise Committee probing pubcos.

Tim Thomas, whose company Gold Club leases Enterprise's Oak & Ivy in Hawkhurst, Kent, said his experience is "different" from the "horror stories".

Thomas said trading has been "testing" but "active support and meaningful actions" by Enterprise and Gold Club means "we are now facing the future with a far greater hope of success than we could have imagined six months ago".

Shaina Khan has held the lease of Enterprise's Around Town in Maidenhead, Berkshire, for almost six years, with no experience of running a pub when she started. "Without the support and guidance of Enterprise, I could have very well lost it all in the first year," Khan said.

She said Enterprise staff "provided me with the support network I needed to make my business a success" in account management and updates on regulation.

"I am tired of hearing all negative things about Enterprise and thought it was about time people realised the good points and the amazing people who work for it."

Khan said she received no financial help or other benefit from writing the letter.

George Lister of the Pearson's Arms, Whitstable, Kent, said he requested a seasonal rent reduction, which was approved, and advice from his regional manager enabled him to arrange a VAT payment plan.

"As a result of the assistance from Enterprise, I was able to manage my cashflow through the most difficult period I have ever encountered. The input and sense of urgency simply saved my business. Hats off to Enterprise."