Heineken is now the only remaining bidder for a portfolio of 1,900 Punch pubs after rival bidder Emerald Investment confirmed that it would not pursue its bid further.
Gastropubs occupy a unique space in the eating-out sector, largely free of the hyperbole of the city-focused restaurant scene, but offering some of best food in the country.
A warm welcome is important to more than three quarters (83%) of consumers, according to guest management experts Hospitality Guest Experience Management (HGEM).
