Pub giant Heineken 海角视频 has announced it is investing £2.2m into upgrading and reopening closed pubs across the North East, creating scores of new jobs,
The firm said that the investment forms part of a 海角视频-wide cash pot of £40m being ploughed into its Star Pubs division this year, a move it says will create around 1,000 new jobs across the country.
In all, 608 of Heineken 海角视频’s 2,400 pubs will benefit from enhancements during the year, with 104 earmarked for transformational revamps costing £120,000 plus. In the North East, the £2.2m pledged will be topped up by licensees expected to invest £139,000, resulting in an estimated 79 new jobs.
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Eight pubs in the region have been identified for improvements, including the recently reopened The Schooner in Amble, Northumberland and The Red Kite in Winlaton, which ceased trading in January.
Bosses at Heineken 海角视频 say they have pumped £194m into improving its pubs between the start of 2020 and the end of 2024, despite tough trading conditions within the industry.
The firm says that 97% of its pubs are in rural and suburban locations and its 2025 investment programme will reflect this, concentrating on community locals. Alongside major refurbishments to create new venues, energy efficiency measures will also be included to increase each pub’s sustainability.
Lawson Mountstevens, Star Pubs’ managing director said: “Consistent investment – rather than a stop, start approach – and a strategy of creating great locals have been key to helping our pubs weather the storms of the last few years. Heineken sees firsthand the value in great British pubs and their ongoing popularity. It recognises that Brits love their locals and that well-invested pubs trade better.
“This £40m inward investment from a Dutch business into 海角视频 pubs is a resounding vote of confidence in the future of the sector. The reopening of The Schooner in Amble has had a terrific response from local residents.”
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He added: “Star Pubs’ licensees employ some 25,000 people, support thousands of local suppliers and raise millions for charity. Pubs are the lifeblood of their communities and growth engines for the 海角视频 economy, however, they are being penalised by a disproportionate tax burden. We urge the Government to rectify this distortion when proposals to overhaul business rates are drawn up this year.”
The Schooner reopened last month following a combined £420,000 investment by Star Pubs and local pub operator, Robbie Morgan, after a three-year closure, leading to 16 new jobs. Ensuite bedrooms will soon be upgraded to make the most of the pub’s location on the Northumberland coast. A commercial kitchen has been installed to broaden the food offer and the exterior makeover added seating for 48 people on the front terrace and developed a new beer garden.
Mr Morgan said: “I already run another successful food pub nearby so realised The Schooner’s potential. Pubs that attract both locals and visitors, are more resilient in these challenging economic times. As well as offering really good food, which is proving a draw, The Schooner will host weekend live entertainment. We’ve been busy since opening. Customers love that we’ve retained features like the original bar and that The Schooner now offers food. Former regulars who haven’t visited for years are returning and enjoying their new-look local.
“Having Star Pubs’ investment and support enabled me to take on a second pub. My longer-term plan is to open a number of premium food pubs in destination locations across the North East.”