The Inspiration for Pub Success Since 1794
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has set out a five point plan for pubs and the wider hospitality sector, including cuts to beer duty and VAT, the phased abolition of business rates and changes to energy and employment costs.
Sir Tim Martin has warned UK pubs face long term decline unless the sector unites behind a single demand for tax equality with supermarkets, arguing that weaker calls for Government support have failed to halt the erosion of the on trade.
PROPERTY ROUND-UP
This property round-up includes mentions from Heartwood Inns, M&B, Star Pubs and more.
Urban Pubs & Bars has accelerated its London expansion after a sustained period of strong trading across its 66 site estate, with the group completing 15 acquisitions in the past 12 months.
Punch Pubs & Co has completed the acquisition of 30 pubs from family-owned brewer and pub operator McMullen’s, strengthening its estate across Hertfordshire and Essex.
Star Pubs has reported a 10% uplift in applications in January compared to the same period last year, despite wider concerns about trading pressures across the sector.
Jennings Brewery managing director Chris France has outlined the reaction from guests since the business reopened last summer after being acquired in February 2025.
Chef and operator Tom Kerridge has warned that rising business rates risk pushing pubs into a “race to the bottom”, saying many sites are now operating at “about 110% costs”.
Concerns have been raised over parking and pedestrian safety at Jeremy Clarkson’s Cotswolds pub, the Farmer’s Dog, as the operator seeks permission for an overflow car park to manage high levels of demand.
The pub property market is heading into 2026 leaner, more polarised and increasingly unforgiving for operators without a clear offer, according to leading agents.
A community pub and arts centre in Plymouth has said it needs to raise £50,000 to combat rising costs and avoid closure.