Record numbers of people are reported to be applying for a Punch Taverns pub, as news of the success of the company’s Punch Foundation Tenancy model spreads through the pub sector and beyond.
Key to this success, Punch Taverns’ New Business Team recently reached an impressive new milestone – supporting their 250th Partner with a new business launch.
The Coachmakers Arms
When Trish and Jonny Smith took over The Coachmakers Arms in Newport Pagnell in October last year, they were industry newcomers. Jonny was a builder by trade and Trish was a stay-at-home Mum. The pair had limited experience of working in bars and coffee shops, but on a personal note, they were attached to the pub, as it is where they first met 10 years ago.
Support from Punch Taverns began with a major reinvestment in their premises of more than £125,000. However, it was the high levels of support the couple got from the New Business Team led by Operations Director Paul Pavli that got their business off to a flying start. Recent figures show sales are 34% higher than projected.
Trish admits the couple held off on their first offer, from another pubco, to get a Punch Foundation Tenancy instead. They actively wanted the backing of the company’s New Business Team. “The idea of taking on a business alone is very daunting and any support is appreciated!” she said. “The level of support here from Punch has been outstanding. It’s given us lots more knowledge, making us feel confident in what we are doing. From training courses to weekly meetings – and even people just being at the end of the phone – the support has been constant all the way through. We would not have managed properly without it.”
Identifying potential
Paul Pavli said: “Our recruitment process is successfully identifying people who have the potential to be great Partners – whether or not they have experience. Trish and Jonny are a great example of this.
“Since we set it up in 2013, the New Business Team has proved that if you support Partners in those critical early months, it makes a significant difference. We oversee the reinvestment works, assist with the launch, help partners get their catering offer, marketing and merchandising right – and crucially make sure they get off to a strong start with their financial controls.
“Since being introduced in November 2013, The New Business Team has overseen the completion of c£32m of Punch Taverns’ investment in premises, with more developments in the pipeline.”
Pictured: Operations Director Paul Pavli (centre front), with his New Business Team.
The Coachmakers Arms, 117 High Street, Newport Pagnell, MK16 8EN