Ei Group defers rent for April

The pubco also outlined it was keeping its licensees informed about the help measures available from the Government.

An Ei Publican Partnerships spokesperson said: “We are working with our publicans throughout this pandemic, ensuring they are kept up to date with the Government support available for businesses as well as deferring collection of rent and fees, which we will keep under constant review.”

The Morning Advertiser ​has asked for clarity on this and is awaiting a response.

The pubco had previously said it was working with various parties and following guidance during the coronavirus outbreak.

Past comment

It added it will carry on asking for support from the Government and pushing it to ensure the future of the trade is safe.

A spokesperson for Ei Publican Partnerships said: “We are in regular communication with our publicans as we work together to support their businesses, as well as protecting customers and teams during this extraordinary time.

“We are also working with the trade associations following their guidance, as well as that issued by Public Health England, as the situation evolves.

“We will continue to press for Government support for pubs and bars to ensure hospitality is safeguarded for the future.”

Pub merger

In February, the Competition Markets Authority (CMA) passed the proposed acquisition of Ei Group by Stonegate Pub Company,​ after the pubcos satisfied the watchdog that a set number of pubs would be sold to avoid potential monopolies.

Stonegate agreed to buy Ei Group for £1.27bn​​ last year (July). The deal meant Stonegate’s estate would rise by 4,000 sites, making it the largest pub owner in the UK.

Stonegate is an experienced managed pub operator, with a record of investing more than £350m into its estate since 2010, including £71m in 2018.