Wetherspoon is gearing up to launch 15 new pubs in collaboration with the popular fish and chips chain Papas. The inaugural establishment, named The Hykeham Manor, is scheduled to open in Gateway Park, Lincoln, on October 1. Following this, three more pubs are set to open in Annitsford, Northumberland, Stockton-on-Tees, Co Durham, and Emersons Green in Bristol over the next two months.
Under a franchise agreement with The Papas Group, Wetherspoon will oversee the operations of these pubs. Michael Barron, Wetherspoon’s commercial director, expressed enthusiasm about the newly established partnership with The Papas Group, hinting at potential future franchise agreements.
Andrew Papas, director of the Papas Group, shared his excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the significance of revitalizing community spaces and creating job opportunities through the new pub openings. This venture aims to restore and reinvest in local communities, offering a blend of value, ambiance, and service synonymous with Wetherspoon’s reputation.
In a related development, Wetherspoon had previously joined forces with Haven, resulting in five franchise sites, including the first on-site Wetherspoon pub at Primrose Valley. The expansion of these new pubs has been backed by a substantial £6.7 million investment from Haven. Additionally, Wetherspoon has existing franchise agreements with Newcastle and Hull Universities, as well as Thompson Holdings, which manages a pub in the Isle of Man.
Moreover, in response to a customer’s complaint about a menu item disappearance, Wetherspoon boss Tim Martin promptly reinstated the tuna jacket potato after it was removed from the menu. The customer’s letter expressing disappointment over the missing dish at his local Wetherspoon pub prompted the reinstatement of the popular menu choice.
The cooperative efforts between Wetherspoon and Papas Group reflect a shared commitment to community engagement and enhancing the pub experience for patrons across the UK.
