Heineken is set to create around 600 new jobs with a £40 million investment plan for 2023 which will upgrade around 570 venues within the Star Pubs & Bars portfolio, nearly a quarter of its UK establishments.
The spending will prioritise neighbourhood locals, which make up 70% of Heineken UK’s 2,400 pubs and follows-on from research that shows nearly 60% of pubgoers are choosing pubs closer to home. It means that every refurbishment will be bespoke and tailored to the individual pub and the community it serves with new decor to enhance the character of the buildings, retaining features such as flagstone floors and fireplaces, while updating the pubs. Garden makeovers will also be a common feature of the investment programme, with new seating areas providing extra space for customers.
Lawson Mountstevens, Star Pubs & Bars’ Managing Director, emphasised the importance of ongoing investment in their venues despite the “uncertain” consumer landscape. The organisation announced that approximately 100 pubs will undergo extensive renovations costing around £200,000 each as part of this investment initiative.
Mountstevens commented, “We know from previous economic downturns that when customers’ disposable income is squeezed, they look for an exceptional experience when they go out. A great ambience and attractive surroundings are key and contribute to the value for money that pubgoers seek. It’s more important than ever to invest during uncertain times like these, to keep pubs thriving and meeting the needs of their communities. Our investment is a vote of confidence in the great British local.”
Additionally, financial support will be allocated to sustainability initiatives and energy reduction measures in order to achieve Heineken UK’s goal of being net zero across its supply chain by 2040 and to combat rising energy expenses.
Picture: Star Pubs & Bars