Wetherspoons, the renowned pub chain with establishments across the UK and Ireland, has announced plans to close 36 of its sites in England. The decision comes as the company prepares to put these pubs up for sale.
Tim Martin, the chairman of JD Wetherspoon, commented on the situation: “The gradual recovery in sales and profits, following the pandemic, has continued in the current financial year.”
He further added: “Total sales are, again, at record levels, with fewer pubs. Sales per pub are approximately 21 percent higher than pre-pandemic levels, which has helped to compensate for the very substantial increase in costs.”
He elaborated on the increased costs, stating: “For example, compared to the 2019 financial year, labour in this financial year has increased by approximately £164million, energy by £28million, repairs (also affected by labour costs) by £38million and interest (excluding IFRS 16 interest) by £16million.”
The list of Wetherspoons pubs set to close, arranged alphabetically by location, includes:
