Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need to have experience of running a pub?

No. We are committed to recruiting Business Partners that have the potential to make a great success of the pub that they operate. If you have the drive and ambition to run a successful business, we would love to speak you – irrespective of your working background and experience.

Do I need to have any qualifications?

Yes. You will need to nominate a person to be the Designated Premises Supervisor at the pub. This person will need to have successfully completed the National Certificate for Personal Licence Holders course and have been issued with a Personal Licence by their local authority. This person will ideally be Hall & Woodhouse’s Business Partner at the pub.

How much money will I need to invest in the business?

The required capital will vary on a pub by pub basis but will consist of the following elements:

  • Purchase of fixtures & fittings from the outgoing tenant
  • Purchase of the stock, glassware and loose catering effects from the outgoing tenant
  • Deposit – you will need to lodge a £7,500 deposit with Hall & Woodhouse for the duration of your Business Partnership Agreement. You will earn interest on this deposit and it will be returned to you at the end of your time as a Hall & Woodhouse Business Partner.
  • Working capital – you will need an amount of money to support your cash flow during your first few weeks at your new pub.

Each pub vacancy will have a mimimum investment figure quoted as guide to the funds you will require.

How long will the recruitment process take?

From receipt of your completed application to being offered a pub will normally take 2-3 months. These timescales will vary depending on us being able to match you to a suitable pub and how long it takes you to complete a Business Plan for your chosen site. We will always keep you up to date with your progress and advise you of the key milestones through the recruitment process.

What support will I receive from Hall & Woodhouse?

Hall & Woodhouse are committed to providing it’s business partners with the support that will allow their businesses to prosper. Not only will you have your own dedicated Area Manager and Property Surveyor but also have complimentary access to experts in marketing, purchasing, gaming machines and business rates. During your first 12 months, you will be required to use the services of Hall & Woodhouse’s approved Accountants and Stock Takers. The information that these professionals will supply to you and Hall & Woodhouse will help to ensure that the correct financial controls are in place for the long term benefit of your business.

How long will my agreement be for?

Hall & Woodhouse’s Business Partnership Agreement is 3 years in duration and is protected under the 1954 Landlord & Tenant Act. This means that if you would like to extend your stay at the pub you have right to renew your agreement at the end of each 3 year period.

How will the rent I pay be calculated?

Your initial rent will be based on the fair maintainable trade of the pub. This is the level of trade that we agree the pub is capable of achieving on an annual basis. Using industry standards for GP% and costs, we will be able to anticipate the level of profit the pub will generate and the initial rent will be reflective of this profit. Your rent will increase or decrease by RPI on the 1st and 2nd anniversary of your agreement.
When you come to renew your agreement at the end of the third year, the initial rent for your new agreement will the current year three rent increased or decreased by the current rate of RPI. In short, throughout your time as Hall & Woodhouse Business Partner, your rent will only ever change on an annual basis by RPI.

Do I have to buy all of my drinks from you?

Yes. The Supply Agreement means that you will be required to purchase all of your drink products from Hall & Woodhouse. This includes all draught and packaged beers, ciders, wines, spirits, minerals and alcopops.

Do I have to buy my food from you?

No. You are free to decide on the menu at your pub and from where you source your ingredients. However, some of the best prices are available via Leisure Supply Group. Membership of Leisure Supply Group is a free service available to all Hall & Woodhouse Business Partners.

Am I tied for gaming machines?

Gaming machines (including AWPs, SWPs and pool tables) are provided by our nominated list of suppliers. You will pay a weekly rent for your machines, part of which is received by Hall & Woodhouse in the form of a royalty. The profit from the machines will be split between you and Hall & Woodhouse. You will receive 67% and Hall & Woodhouse 33% of this profit.

Will I have to maintain the property?

You will be jointly responsible with Hall & Woodhouse for the maintenance of the property. Broadly speaking, Hall & Woodhouse will be responsible for all major and structural repairs whilst you will have responsibility for minor repairs. You will be provided with a complete schedule of maintenance responsibility as a part of your Business Partnership Agreement.