Some seven bidders are expected to submit second-round offers for the pub estate of UK brewer, Scottish & Newcastle, which is up for sale.

The 1,450-outlet chain is expected to be sold for around £2.3 billion. Among the bidders are thought to be the entrepreneur Reuben brothers, Mitchell & Butlers, Laurel Pub Company, Pubmaster and the French private-equity house, PAI.

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