Star sees 10% rise in pub applications
The company saw a higher level of interest in leasing pubs in 2019. This followed an increase of 12.5% in 2018.
Traffic for its recruitment website was up 49%, with more people accessing it from mobile phones, and its pub open days had recorded attendance levels up by 80-90%.
Star Pubs & Bars recruitment manager Hance McPherson said: “With stories in the news about businesses not committing to projects and investment, it’s refreshing to see the leased pub sector bucking the trend and demonstrating that the entrepreneurial spirit in the licensed trade is still alive and kicking.
“Operators can see the opportunities well-invested pubs offer and are keen to partner with pub companies that have a clear business strategy to help them deliver long-term growth.”
Big business security
More multiple operators also took on pubs in 2019 showing evidence of experienced licensees’ confidence in the future of the pub industry.
Multiple operator Ross Robinson and his business partners took on their third lease with Star Pubs & Bars last year.
Robinson said: “Leasing a pub makes business sense because you have the security of a big business behind you and get access to various cash resources that you might not have available to fund yourself otherwise.
“Star Pubs also has a fantastic portfolio of well-located pubs that wouldn’t ever be seen on the open market. We have a successful partnership with Star Pubs & Bars as they offer flexibility of leases and funding tailored to each pub and some great pubs.”
