Butcombe Group is raising a glass after being crowned best pub employer (501 or more employees) at this year’s Publican Awards.

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Host Rylan Clark with the Butcombe Group team at The Publican Awards

The award recognises the company’s commitment to creating an outstanding working environment. This is underpinned by comprehensive training, strong staff motivation and benefits, and clear pathways for long‑term career development.

“Our teams are the heartbeat of this business, and this award recognises the passion, professionalism, and genuine hospitality they deliver every single day,” said Butcombe Group’s chief experience officer, Cat Moseley.

“Hospitality is a fast‑paced industry, but when you invest in training, communication, and wellbeing, you build teams that are confident, motivated, and proud of what they do.

“We’ve worked hard to build a culture where people feel supported, valued, and able to grow, so to be recognised by the industry’s most respected awards is something we’re immensely proud of.”

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At the heart of this approach is ‘Our Way’, Butcombe Group’s bespoke training programme designed to ensure every team member delivers consistently high standards of hospitality.

New starters complete essential online modules on day one — including allergen awareness, food safety, and manual handling — before progressing to hands‑on, role‑specific training that builds confidence across the entire guest journey.

Butcombe Group’s win reflects a clear, well‑executed strategy, built around mental health, wellbeing and meaningful career development. The group offers defined progression pathways supported by accredited training, alongside a strong culture of reward and recognition celebrated at the annual Butcombe Awards.

Equity and inclusion remain central to the business, and every employee has access to a 24/7 assistance programme, providing confidential mental health support, financial guidance, legal advice, and wellbeing resources.