Wetherspoon is gearing up to launch 15 new pubs in partnership with the popular fish and chips chain, Papas. The initial establishment, named The Hykeham Manor, is scheduled to debut on October 1 in Gateway Park, Lincoln. Following this, three more pubs are set to open in Annitsford, Northumberland, Stockton-on-Tees, Co Durham, and Emersons Green in Bristol during October and November.
Operating under franchise with The Papas Group, Wetherspoon is enthusiastic about the collaboration. Commercial director Michael Barron expressed excitement over the signed agreements and hinted at potential further franchise deals in the future.
Andrew Papas, director of the Papas Group, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the significance of the new pubs as community hubs with strategic locations. He highlighted the shared values of restoration, revitalization, and community investment, aiming to create job opportunities and provide high-quality service and value to customers.
This strategic move follows Wetherspoon’s previous partnership with Haven, resulting in five franchised sites, including the first on-site Wetherspoon pub at Primrose Valley. Haven has invested £6.7 million in expanding these new establishments. Additionally, Wetherspoon has existing franchise agreements with Newcastle and Hull Universities and Thompson Holdings, which manages a pub in the Isle of Man.
In other news, a Wetherspoon fan successfully advocated for the reinstatement of tuna jacket potato on the menu after lodging a complaint with Tim Martin, the pub chain’s boss. Following the customer’s request, the beloved menu item was promptly brought back, showcasing the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.