The first site to open as part of the multi-unit agreement will be the Hykeham Manor, located in Gateway Park, Lincoln, on the site of a former Gateway Park Brewers Fayre, which will welcome customers on Wednesday 1 October.
A further three pubs are set to open in October and November at sites in Annitsford, Cramlington, Stockton-on-Tees and Emersons Green in Bristol.
The deal expands the pub behemoth’s franchise footprint, with five sites already in operation with Haven Holiday Parks alongside agreements with Newcastle and Hull Universities.
Further opportunities
It also has a franchise agreement with Thompson Holdings, which operates a pub in the Isle of Man.
JDW commercial director Michael Barron said: “We are delighted to have signed agreements with The Papas Group.
“We are looking at further opportunities and are confident that more franchise agreements will be signed.”
Meanwhile the Papas Group, which was founded in 1966 and remains a family-owned business, operates a number of casual dining and quick service restaurants in England and Scotland.
The Papas Group director Andrew Papas added: “We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with Wetherspoons to bring 15 new pubs to life across the UK.
Community spaces
“These aren’t just any pubs — they’re beloved community spaces, thoughtfully located outside the traditional high street, yet right at the heart of where people live, work, and gather.
“This partnership is about more than just expansion; it’s about restoration, revitalisation, and reinvestment in our local communities.”
He continued: “We’re proud to be breathing new life into some fantastic venues, creating hundreds of jobs, and offering unbeatable value, welcoming surroundings and the exceptional service that people expect from Wetherspoon.
“At Papas Group, we believe in building places that bring people together — and we can’t wait to open our doors.”
