Star Pubs & Bars has said that demand for its leasehold pubs is still on the rise, despite concerns about the economy.
Its latest recruitment figures have showed that the number of pubs taken on a lease were up by a third at the end of 2018, compared to the previous year, with applications for pubs up 12.5% (this figure takes into account the increased size of the estate following the Punch acquisition).
Star said interest in its managed operator Just Add Talent pubs was also strong.
Hance Mcpherson, Star Pubs & Bars recruitment manager said: “These latest recruitment figures are especially encouraging given concerns about the economy.
“Since March, we have held 25 open days and the feedback we got at them was that licensees are prepared to take on new businesses in spite of the economic climate. They know and like the fact that Heineken is committed to investment in its pubs and supporting them in the long term.
“The momentum shows no signs of slowing down with the same levels of interest continuing into the first half of January.”
