Best Community Pub Operator winner, sponsored by Britvic: Urban Village Inns

The pub chain brings the “Urban” bar scene, such as artisan food, craft beers and competitive socialising to a pub with the atmosphere of a friendly village local on the community's doorstep. 

This company is reinventing the idea of the community pub and the judges said there was a real passion of those working within and running the business. 

Community champions​

Judges called them “Great community champions.” They take a hands-on approach which transforms these pubs into the epicentres of communities which is what this category stands for.

Judges were impressed by the ability of the company to rescue and bring back to life previously closed pubs. For example, in Waltham Forest, the company was approached by the local councillor who asked if they would support the community by taking on a derelict pub called the Rookwood.

Innovation is at the core of its approach to community. The pubs have flexible spaces, which are named Village Halls, which are available for free use by community groups and local businesses.  

Local support​

There is a community beer fridge in its sites offering a range of canned beers which relies on the customer being honest and bringing it to the bar to pay.

Support is given to other local producers including small local breweries, who make it on the bar of the local venue. Its support for other local businesses also sees it run a regular small producer market at the Rookwood.

Its engagement with other local businesses and organisations extends beyond this. For example, its general manager at its Walton site is on the board of the local Business Improvement District. Judges were also impressed with its approach to staff and highlighted its initiative to support their mental health.