Finding your first pub

- What pub is it you want?

- Where to look

- First visit / Check list

What Pub Is It You Want?

Finding your ideal pub can often be quite time consuming.
There are different sorts of outlets available to you when you are looking to find your first pub. All of which must be looked into to ensure you make the right decision for you. There are four main routes to run a licensed premise:

1. Freeholder
2. Lessee
3. Tenant
4. Manager

Click here to download chart showing the differences.

Other things that need to be considered are the style of the pub, location and clientele.

Where to Look

• BIIBUSINESS Magazine
• Brewery or Pub Company Websites
• Findmypub.com - BII is working with Findmypub.com to share the benefits of BII membership and the importance of quality training. Findmypub.com promotes opportunities for new and existing licensees within the pub sector. Their aim is to make finding your perfect pub simple and you can see at a glance the sort of opportunities available.
• Pub Valuers Websites
• Business Transfer Agents Websites
• Publican and Morning Advertiser (Licensed Trade News)
• Daltons Weekly – Magazine/ Website – (Businesses for sale)

First Visit/ Check List

When visiting a premises you feel might be of interest you, it is important to be inconspicuous as this is respectful to the existing licensee. The current licensee may not have made their staff or customers aware that they are leaving.

You may be able to decide whether a pub is right for you straight away or you may need to make more than one visit. It is advisable to visit the pub at different times of the day and on different days of the week to get a real feel for it. Making notes is important if you are visiting more than one establishment. Making a SWOT (Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities and Threats) analysis to weigh up the good and bad points is advisable.

Driving around the area in which the pub is situated can also give you a good idea of the types of people who live and work in the catchment area. This will also give you an opportunity to check out the competition!

Please click here for access to our check list

For more information on factors to consider when viewing premises please visit www.buyingapub.com by clicking here.