UK: Heineken planning sale of 150 pubs across the UK

Heineken is planning to sell around 150 pubs across the UK, the HeraldScotland reported on July 3.

It was reported the value of the package would be around £60 million and many premises are Punch pubs.

The brewer sparked concern when it bought nearly 2,000 Punch Taverns two years ago, prompting a competition probe before approval of that £300m deal.

The group said then it would sell pubs in around 30 areas around the UK to ease concerns the merger could lead to reduced competition and consumer choice in some places.

Heineken UK said it is unable to provide locations of the planned sales at this stage.

However, a spokesman for its Star Pubs and Bars said: "We are in the process of marketing a small number of pubs for sale.

"We have consistently said that we regularly review our estate, and with the growth of any pub estate there is also ongoing optimisation which includes some disposals."

Ben Wilkinson, Campaing for Real Ale (CAMRA) national director, said: "Having decided to dispose of these pubs, we welcome Heineken's responsible decision to market them as going concerns and seek a different pub operator to take them on.

"Most important though will be the intention of the purchaser, and local communities deserve rapid assurances from any new operator that they are committed to the future of these pubs rather than asset stripping.

"Academic research shows local pubs help people live happier lives, have more close friends, and stay more connected with their communities.

"It's essential that these pubs, many of which are at the heart of their local area, are given a fair chance to thrive under new ownership."