Do I need any qualifications to run a pub?
We have an online qualification from the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) that you’ll need to complete before you take on the running of your own pub. The BII’s PEAT training (Pre-entry awareness training) gives an independent overview of tenancy terms across all pub companies and breweries, covered by the industry code of practice. If you want to run a pub you’ll need to have a personal licence, too, which allows you to sell alcohol on the premises. Getting a licence is straightforward – call our team to find out more on 01283 501999.
What do I need to be a successful Publican?
To succeed as a pub landlord, you’ll need perseverance, time management skills and resolve – running a pub is definitely not a 9-5 job. You’ll need to be aware of the types of situations that can arise – covering shifts when a team member phones in sick, early or late deliveries, and a never-ending to-do list! Taking on your own pub is a challenge. But being determined and putting in the hours – alongside the support of Punch – will help you achieve your goals.
How much support will I get?
We have over 12 support teams as well as a team of Operations Managers. They’re on hand to help and guide you as you build your business. They’ll visit you regularly and offer business advice and marketing tips to help you thrive.
What’s the difference between a tenancy and a lease?
Usually a tenancy is for a shorter period of time and you can’t sell on the goodwill of the business. A lease is a much longer agreement, but you’re able to sell on the goodwill of the business when you leave.
Do I have to buy drinks from Punch?
Your agreement will tell you which products you have to buy from Punch. This is called the ‘tie’, and the majority of our pubs are tied.
What background information will I get on each pub?
We’ll provide you with all the relevant pub-specific information you’ll need in order to make an informed decision on the opportunity available and your Operations Manager will provide some general pub history. If you’re buying an assigned lease, the turnover figures and other information about the business will be supplied by the current lessees – you’ll need to verify these before proceeding.
How much will it cost to move in?
Each available pub shows how much money we estimate you’ll need to get your pub up and running. You can find out more about this in our section on cost considerations, here.
Who pays for repairs?
If you have a tenancy agreement, you’ll need to pay for a repair & maintenance plan. If you have a lease agreement, you’re usually responsible for repairs, but will need to pay into a repairs fund to cover any repairs we make for you.
Who pays for insurance?
Punch Insurance is re-charged to you on a banding basis depending on the size and style of your pub. You’re required to insure other areas of the business that you’re responsible for, including public and product liability, employee liability, fixtures and fittings and loss of income.
What if I want to leave early?
Our tenancy agreements have break clauses written into them so you can, in most cases, leave at this point. If you have a lease, you’ll need to arrange to sell on the agreement. Breaking an agreement early can be a big decision – everything you need to know is outlined in our Punch Services Guide.
How much money do I need to become a Punch Publican?
As you might expect, running your own pub involves a number of costs. These really vary depending on the type of agreement you take on, combined with other factors like the size, style and location of the pub. We advertise all our sites in a clear and simple format – search available pubs here. For more help, pick up the phone to our recruitment team on 01283 501999.
Do I need to have experience running a pub?
Previous experience of running a pub will help you along but it’s not essential. Any experience of running your own business and managing accounts, profit and loss and stock control will also help you. More importantly, we recognise passion, ambition, vision and commitment in our publicans. We offer a wide range of support and training services to help both new publicans and experienced licensees make their business a success.
How much money can I expect to earn?
Taking on a pub and becoming your own boss is not without risk. Being self employed is very different to receiving a regular salary, but there’s the prospect of even greater reward. Again the style of pub and how you choose to run your business will affect your profit. It’s important that you enter the business with a realistic view of potential performance. Your Operations Manager will give you the trading history of the pub you’re interested in, and as you start to build your business plan, you’ll establish realistic projections.
Do you offer discounts on other goods and services?
With our buying power, we’re proud to offer you a range of services to help you run a successful business at discounted rates, saving you money on your bottom line.
Can you run a pub with no experience?
The simple answer is yes. If you’ve had experience of working in, or running, a pub before that’s great, but it’s not a requirement. The most important qualities you need are dedication, determination and a passion to make your business succeed. Being a great people person and adapting yourself to work with a variety of customers is vital. Versatility is also key, as is understanding stock control, financial management, legal information and how to staff your pub.
Once I’ve applied on the website, what happens next?
We’ll be in touch within 3 working days to register your interest. Following this, we’ll set you up with the relevant team member for an informal chat to get to know you and learn more about what you’re looking for in a pub. The process takes place over two stages, in which you’ll need to complete a business plan. If there aren’t currently any pubs you’re interested in, or we decide you might be best suited to another pub, we’ll work with you to find that perfect opportunity.
