Thwaites WayInn for new licensees

11.07.2011

Lancashire-based brewer Daniel Thwaites has launched an innovative new scheme designed to help people with aspirations of running their own pub to realise their dream.

The WayInn Agreement makes it possible for potential pub managers who don't have a lump sum to invest or who may be 'risk averse', to make that first step towards running a pub.

Andrew Buchanan, director of pub operations at Daniel Thwaites said: "The WayInn Agreement is designed to make the whole business of running a pub hassle-free. It's almost like a try before you buy for those wanting to get in on the pub trade!

"It also gives people an opportunity to set up their own pub business without having to find the initial investment, and get valuable experience with our support. We invest both time and money in the pub, to make sure it is well set up to deliver the right offer to the right consumer in its area."

The pub operator runs the premises with the guidance of an experienced Area Business Manager, to an agreed business plan. This will focus on delivery of high quality products, excellent standards and merchandising, great customer service and lots of activities. A comprehensive three day training course is provided.

Managers are guaranteed a weekly income of £200 or 15 per cent of total weekly sales. Thwaites are responsible for all other pub running costs ranging from everything from utility bills and Sky costs (where appropriate) to business rates and product costs.

Added Andrew Buchanan: "The WayInn Agreement provides a great route in to running a pub for people with limited funds. Daniel Thwaites offers a six month agreement on selected pubs to pay all outgoing costs, except for staff costs."

Five Thwaites pubs are already operating under the WayInn Agreement including The Prince of Wales in Crewe (the first pub to open in the scheme), The Millbank Inn at Rhyl, The Queens at Bradley Fold, near Bolton, The Queen Ann at Little Lever, Bolton and The Church at Mosley, near Ashton-under-Lyne.

Said Andrew Buchanan: "Ideally after the first six months will be followed by a transfer onto one of Thwaites' tenancy agreements.  There are various ways of transferring to one of our new tenancy agreement types. Named 'Goldings', 'Fuggles' and 'Styrian', they offer a flexible range of discounts dependant on the need of the consumer offer and in the case of the Styrian agreement, remove the internal decorating liability from the tenant.

"The whole idea is to create opportunities through investment and encouraging motivated operators to get back behind the bar, giving the pub a new lease of life. Ultimately, we want to see pubs participating in the initiative becoming the best performing outlets in their communities."

If you want to find out more about the WayInn Agreement, please contact the Recruitment Hotline on 01254 686846.