Five companies are on the shortlist for the auction of the 1,450-outlet pub chain put up for sale by the UK’s leading brewer, Scottish & Newcastle (S&N).

Mitchells & Butlers, Pubmaster, the Laurel Pub Company, Spirit Group and the French venture capital group, PAI Management, have until August 22 to submit their bids. S&N will then select two or three offers from which to make their final choice, hoping to complete the deal by the end of the year.

Just Drinks Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Drinks Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
De Kuyper Royal Distillers’ De Kuyper Batched 0.0% range has won both Innovation and Product Launches honours in the 2025 Just Drinks Excellence Awards. Learn how these premium, non-alcoholic RTD cocktails help operators serve consistent, bar-quality drinks while tapping fast-growing demand for sophisticated alcohol-free options.

Discover the Impact