McMullen’s
McMullen’s has been brewing beer in Hertford since it was founded in 1827. This brewer and pub operator recently underlined its commitment to managed pubs by exiting the leased and tenanted market, completing the sale of 30 pubs.
This move enables McMullen’s to continue developing its 86‑strong managed house and hotel division, reinvesting the proceeds of this sale into this existing estate.
Its pubs sit at the heart of many communities, ranging from traditional locals to cocktail bars and high‑footfall tourist venues across central London.
It previously acquired three Oakman Inns sites reopening them with ‘Macs’ values, infrastructure, and training.
Looking ahead, McMullen’s is progressing two major new developments in Guildford and Epsom, reflecting its ambition for sustainable growth. Its acquisition strategy remains firmly focused on freehold sites with long‑term potential.
The company has recently been adding rooms above its prime sites in London and is looking to add rooms where it considers there is a good return on investment.
Mitchells & Butlers
Managed pub operator Mitchells & Butlers has over 1600 pubs across the country with well-known brands including Nicholson’s, All Bar One, Harvester and Miller and Carter.
Established in 1898, it is one of the largest operators of restaurants, pubs and bars in the UK. It saw a strong financial performance for the full year 2025 with like-for-like sales up 4.3% and adjusted operating growth of 5.8% (£330m) on the previous year.
Its Ignite initiative has seen the company implement a range of innovations across the business which have helped to drive sales and efficiencies.
Staff retention and engagement remain a major focus for the business. This strategy includes a focus on talent development, career progression and wellbeing. The result is that 75% of its general manager roles are filled internally.
The pub operator has integrated artificial intelligence into its operations to improve efficiency in menu development, marketing and customer service.
Urban Pubs and Bars
Founded in 2014 by Nick Pring and Malcolm Heap, Urban Pubs & Bars has expanded rapidly through a combination of individual acquisitions and portfolio purchases.
The company accelerated its London expansion after a sustained period of strong trading across its 66-site estate, with the group completing 15 acquisitions over a period of 12 months.
As part of its expansion strategy Urban Pubs & Bars acquired 11 former Antic sites out of administration, along with four additional venues from Albion & East.
Its approach to acquisitions, refurbishments and new openings has been successful in driving incremental value into the business.
The company has already revealed it delivered £23m of site EBITDA in January 2026, which the company said reflects the growing strength of its neighbourhood led, premium model.
Chris Hill joined the group in 2023 as managing director. He is the former chief executive of New World Trading Company and RedCat Pub Company.
