Meet the finalists – Best Managed Pub Company (51+ sites) sponsored by Diageo

Greene King ​

One of the biggest players in the UK’s managed pub scene, Greene King’s managed operation now spans across a large number of pubs and includes a wide range of divisions.

The company has been through considerable change in the last few years, following the departure of Rooney Anand​ and the arrival of new CEO Nick Mackenzie​. That period has also seen a change in ownership, with new owners CK Asset.

All of this change has created a new culture within the business which is now repositioning itself for strong growth as we come out of the pandemic.

Judges were impressed with the businesses focus on inclusivity, both for customers and employees, and its willingness to listen to what people are telling it.

There’s a strong heritage and depth within the Greene King business which the new owners and management are looking to build on as we move forward.

The Liberation Group ​

This is a company that straddles both the mainland and the Channel Islands, blending the best of both.

This award-winning business​ is exceptionally well invested and run by a passionate team that put hospitality at the heart of their operations.

With stand-out sites across an estate of more than 120 pubs, the business works hard to deliver a first-rate experience for every customer, and ensures it invests in and develops its teams to enable that to be delivered.

Food and drink are first rate, with strong development work across the board and an excellent relationship with it’s brewing operations to ensure a strong line up of beers are always on offer.

Food particularly is a strong suit, after winning the food category at the pub awards on a previous two occasions, now the company will be hoping to go one better and take the title of best large managed.