Brewer and pub operator Shepherd Neame today revealed plans to invest £3m in its pubs over the next year to help see its licensees through the economic downturn.
Around 160 pubs - half of Shepherd Neame’s tenanted pub estate – will benefit from internal and external refurbishments such as bar developments, kitchen upgrades, garden and car park improvements, outdoor smoking areas and improved toilet facilities.
George Barnes, Shepherd Neame tied trade and property director, said: “We’re all too aware of the difficult trading conditions facing businesses and have refocused our pub investment strategy to support and motivate our licensees.
“We’re confident that by investing in as many pubs as possible, all of our licensees will be in a strong position when trading conditions improve.”
One of the first pubs to benefit from a £45,000 makeover was The Walnut Tree, in Loose, Kent.
An internal refurbishment has seen the main bar area overhauled with the removal of a dividing wall to make a large, open-plan bar area and the addition of French doors and staircase leading up to the garden.
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By Daniel Thomas
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