This came as the group was warned about counterfeit cash and advised not to accept the notes if in doubt of their authenticity.
JDW spokesperson Eddie Gershon said: “We were notified by the Bank of England last October that a large number of fake Scottish £20 notes were being put into circulation by organised crime gangs.
“Advice was given as to how to identify them but with a warning not to accept if in doubt.”
Ongoing review
He added: “This warning, coupled with an increase in the receipt of fake notes by pubs, led to a decision in late November last year not to accept Scottish £20 notes.
“This does not apply in Scotland and certain towns and cities with close links to Scotland.
“Scottish £50 notes are not accepted for the same reason. We will continue to keep this decision under review."
Customers shared their thoughts on the decision with The Scottish Sun.
This summer (July), JDW revealed it was planning to open around 15 new managed pubs and about the same number of franchised pubs in the next financial year.
Company update
The company’s pre-close update also revealed like-for-like sales were up 5.1% in the 12 weeks to 20 July 2025, against the same period last year while year-to-date like-for-like sales also increased by 5.1%.
Chairman Tim Martin outlined the firm’s plans going forward in terms of investment and estate growth.
“In the next financial year, as well as investing in areas such as staff rooms, glass racks for ‘branded’ glasses and gardens, the company plans to open approximately 15 new managed pubs and about the same number of franchised pubs,” he said.
July also saw JDW open a new pub after spending £3m developing the site. Walham Green on Fulham Road, close to Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge stadium, created 90 new jobs.
