The pub trade should 'put aside any differences in the name of friendship and common endeavour' and show government 'we can put our own house in order' — that’s the message from the chairman of the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR).
Tim Sykes, speaking yesterday at the organisation’s annual Christmas lunch, held at London’s Old Billingsgate Market, said the beer tie 'per se' was not solely responsible for the industry’s difficulties.
Sykes said it was the economic effects of the beer tie, particularly of long FRI (Fully Repairing and Insuring) leases which casued problems. He emphasised that the ALMR is in favour of the vertically integrated brewery model.
Sykes reassured guests that the ALMR was a 'pan-industry organisation' which represented many. Speaking about the beer tie he said: “We do think the lessee should be offered the choice (to be tied or free of tie)”. He also said, if this were the case, 'many operators would choose to be tied'.
Key issues
Sykes said the failure of the recent mediation process to reach a solution was now 'water under the bridge', adding there is 'an urgent need for engagement'.
He highlighted the key issues which need to be addressed such as the rental valuation model and the machine tie.
He called on the trade to work together to 'demonstrate to government and others that we can put our own house in order'. “We need each other to succeed, but it does take two to tango," he said.
Gemma McKenna is senior reporter at BigHospitality's sister title The Morning Advertiser www.morningadvertiser.co.uk