Star Pubs & Bars is to spend £2.4m on improving outside areas at 100 of its pubs.
Funded from its £20m 2016 investment programme, the project will see outside eating and drinking areas developed at 25 pubs to increase their capacity and covers. A further 75 pubs will get new signage and external decorations to enhance their kerb appeal.
Star said where possible, the work would be scheduled for completion prior to the peak summer trading months and, for pubs with a reputation for sport, in time for Euro 2016.
The schemes will include provisions for winter usage, including heaters and retractable covers and sides for seated areas. Where appropriate, pods and sheds will be installed.
The company said licensees would be making corresponding internal improvements. These will range from premiumising their drinks and changing their menus to redecorating or adding a new coffee offer.
Lawson Mountstevens, Star Pubs & Bars managing director said: “These projects will meet customer demand for alfresco dining and boost pubs’ capacity for a relatively low spend. The outside of a pub is its shop window and if it looks great it will attract passing trade.”
