New codes of practice for leased and tenanted pubs have been published today by the Independent Family Brewers of Britain (IFBB), in conjunction with the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) and other companies representing the sector with between zero and 499 pubs.
The two new codes, one for lessees and another for tenants in England and Wales, ensure that there will be a seamless transition for lessees and tenants with a pub company operating fewer than 500 pubs. A further code for Scotland is also being published.
Lessees and tenants covered by the code will continue to enjoy the same low-cost arbitration services for rents (PIRRS) and other disputes (PICAS) overseen by the Pub Governing Body (PGB). The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) will continue to administer the service on behalf of the PGB.
As a requirement of IFBB and BBPA membership, all member companies will be covered by the codes. In addition, Trust Inns and New River Retail have already signed up and talks are taking place with other companies that are not members of either of the two leading organisations.
In order to make the system of self-regulation more streamlined, and as the codes already set minimum standards, companies will no longer need to produce their own company codes for accreditation. However, it is envisaged that the PGB will develop mechanisms to monitor compliance by code signatories, over time. In total, the code covers more than 4,000 pubs in England and Wales.
James Staughton (pictured), chairman of the Family Brewers, said: “The Family Brewers are committed to driving transparency throughout the industry and we have worked hard alongside key stakeholders to co-create the new code of practice. All of our members will adhere to the new code and it now forms part of our membership criteria.
“We are committed to building stronger relationships with tenants and lessees and the introduction of the code is another example of how Family Brewers are focused on attracting and retaining the industry’s best talent across accommodation, food and pubs.”
Brigid Simmonds, chief executive of the BBPA, added: “These new codes are good news for lessees and tenants, and we have worked hard to ensure that the system of self-regulation continues for the smaller companies. It is a low-cost and flexible system that has worked well, and I am delighted that it will continue, with the Pub Governing Body overseeing the arrangements.”
