Brewing Giant Celebrates Growth with 30 New Pubs Opening in 2026
Greene King, the brewing powerhouse based in Bury St Edmunds, is poised to expand its presence in the UK with the opening of 30 new pubs in 2026. This announcement coincides with a significant achievement for the company, marking the launch of its 100th franchise venue.
Expansion and New Opportunities
In 2025, Greene King successfully opened 30 franchise pubs, including notable establishments in Scotland. The Tarbet in Edinburgh was highlighted as the first franchise venue in Scotland after an investment of £285,000 for refurbishment. This expansion signals Greene King’s commitment to broadening its franchise network.
A New Chapter in Franchise Growth
The company plans to venture into Wales and the Southwest of England for the first time as part of its 2026 expansion. Penelope Bruce, the Pub Partners franchise operations director, expressed excitement over reaching the milestone of 100 franchise pubs. She noted, “Just over four years on from launching our very first Hive Pub, our franchise offer continues to grow.”
Recruitment and Training Initiatives
- Greene King is actively seeking experienced pub managers to operate the new venues.
- The company will hire two new business development managers to support its Pub Partners team.
- Franchise investments include pubs like Millwrights in Aylesbury, The Freemasons Arms in Wigan, and The Flag Inn in Egerton.
Cost for a franchisee starts at just £3,000, which includes agreement fees, induction, and on-site training. Earnings generated will primarily stem from food and drink sales. Dan Robinson, managing director of Greene King Pub Partners, remarked on the ongoing growth within the franchise segment, which works alongside the successful leased and tenanted pub business.
Conclusion
Greene King’s ambitious plans for 2026 underline its commitment to growth and community development in the UK pub sector. With the continued interest in franchise opportunities, the company is set to enhance its footprint nationwide.
