As part of the investment, Star Pubs will reopen 62 pubs that have been closed long-term this year. This initiative is part of a broader effort to revitalise the company’s portfolio, which includes 2,400 pubs across the UK. More than a quarter of these, 612 pubs, are slated for improvements under the current programme.

Significant Investment Since 2019

This latest round of funding builds on similar investments made in recent years, bringing Heineken’s total investment in its UK pubs to more than £200 million since 2019. The company’s strategy focuses on transforming underperforming suburban pubs into “premium locals,” reflecting a shift in consumer habits as fewer people commute into city centres for work.

Tailoring Pubs to Local Needs

The refurbishment efforts will include “subtle zoning” to cater to a variety of customers and activities, from dining and socialising to watching sports. Lawson Mountstevens, managing director of Star Pubs, explained: “People are looking for maximum value from visits to their local. They want great surroundings and food and drink, as well as activities that provide an extra reason to go out, such as sports screenings and entertainment."

By creating welcoming local pubs that can accommodate a range of occasions, Heineken aims to help pubs serve as vital community spaces where people can come together.

Modernising and Enhancing Efficiency

Some of the refurbishments will also focus on modernising pub infrastructure, such as upgrading cellars with new dispensing equipment. Additionally, efforts will be made to improve energy efficiency, including the installation of advanced heating controls.

Mountstevens added: “Pubs have proved their enduring appeal, even after all the disruption of recent years. Star is on track to have the lowest number of closed pubs since 2019. This achievement is a testament to the drive and entrepreneurship of our licensees and the importance of continued investment.”

Calls for Government Support

While confident in the future of well-invested pubs, Mountstevens stressed the need for governmental support to alleviate the substantial tax burdens on local pubs. “Well-invested pubs run by great licensees are here to stay, but like all locals, they need government support to reduce the enormous tax burden they shoulder,” he said.

Heineken’s latest investment is a clear indication of the company’s commitment to the UK pub sector and its belief in the enduring value of local community hubs.

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