FLVA: It was important to 'bank benefits' from mediation

Trade group the Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations (FLVA) has explained its decision to support for the British Beer & Pub Association's (BBPA) decision to change its code of practice.

Last week the mediation process, involving various major players from across the trade, failed to come to a consensus on how to best address issues raised about the pubco model by the Business and Enterprise Committee (BEC) report into the industry.

Along with the BII, the FLVA has shown support for plans by the BBPA to make changes to its code of practice. It has also given its backing to some of the aims of the Independent Pub Confederation - the new body formed by The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers, BII, CAMRA, Fair Pint, Federation of Small Businesses, Guild of Master Victuallers, Justice for Licensees, Unite the Union and the Society of Independent Brewers.

Tony Payne, chief executive of the FLVA, said: "The FLVA always made its intentions known that it is important to bank benefits that are available not only to our members but to all licensees in the trade.

"The new BBPA Code of Practice will ensure that for prospective licensees coming into the trade and those who are due for a rent review will be provided with full transparent information on how the proposed rent was arrived at.

"Other benefits are also available following this agreement with the BBPA.

"The working relationship will not stop the FLVA pursuing other avenues in the interests of our members.

"Failure to come to a new agreement could have delayed the full implementation of what was available."