OUR PUBS PODCAST Breaking Free: The Emotional Journey of Escaping Pub Ties

In the world of pub ownership, the journey to freedom from pub ties is often fraught with challenges and delays. Chris and Dave Law of The Eagle Alehouse Battersea recently discussed their experiences, shedding light on the emotional rollercoaster that comes with navigating the Pubs Code and its regulator. Despite the numerous obstacles, including conflicts of interest and perceived bias, Dave’s perseverance paid off after a long and arduous campaign. The sense of relief and accomplishment was palpable as they highlighted the significant benefits of statutory rights and the unexpected gains from going free of the tie, which exceeded initial government estimates.

The conversation then shifted to the broader implications of pub industry reform. Dave passionately described the transformative impact of being free from pub company ties. The newfound freedom allowed for an improved beer selection and pricing, attracting a more diverse customer base. However, the journey was not without its frustrations. Dave recounted his interactions with a CMA investigator who, despite being shocked by the anti-competitive practices of pubcos, took no further action. Chris echoed these sentiments, expressing concern over the lack of a wholesale market review since 1989 and emphasizing the urgent need for regulatory reform. The frustration was further compounded by the lobbying efforts of the British Beer and Pub Association and the lack of awareness among policymakers about the current state of the industry.

Dave’s personal experience as a pub owner added another layer to the discussion. He vividly described the challenges of being tied to a pub company and the immense relief of becoming free of tie. The freedom to run his business without the constraints of a tie was a game-changer, leading to reduced hassle and better relationships with pub companies. Chris and Dave also touched on the ongoing review of pub ties by the government and the active involvement of the Campaign for Pubs in this process.

The conversation concluded with a discussion on the broader issues within the free trade sector. Dave and Chris highlighted the persistent challenges and issues caused by ties and cross-subsidies, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy and reform. Youtube Channel