The British pub is a symbol of community, tradition, and hospitality. Yet behind the scenes, many publicans face unique challenges due to the pub tie—a system that binds tenants to purchasing supplies and beer from their landlords at set prices. For some, this model provides support and structure, but for others, it becomes a source of financial strain. J Mark Dodds, an industry veteran, has dedicated his career to highlighting the pitfalls of the pub tie while advocating for a fairer and more sustainable pub sector.
Understanding the Pub Tie: A Double-Edged Sword
The pub tie is a contractual agreement between a pub company (pubco) and a tenant, where tenants lease the premises under the condition that they buy beer and other supplies from the pubco. In theory, the tie offers mutual benefits: tenants gain access to established supply chains and often receive some initial support, while pubcos secure steady revenue.
When it works well, the pub tie can provide publicans with valuable resources, including training, marketing support, and lower upfront investment costs. For first-time pub operators, this model can ease their entry into the industry, offering a safety net and a framework for success.
However, the flip side is that tied tenants often pay above-market rates for rent and supplies, which can severely impact profit margins. The success of a tied pub can hinge on local conditions, market demand, and the tenant’s business acumen. While some tenants thrive under the model, many find it restrictive and financially unsustainable.
J Mark Dodds: A Voice for Change
J Mark Dodds’ career in hospitality spans decades, and his experiences with the pub tie highlight both its potential and its flaws. In the mid-1990s, Mark took on a tied lease at The Sun and Doves in Camberwell, London. With his creativity and hard work, he transformed the pub into a thriving, award-winning business.
Yet despite his success, Mark faced relentless financial pressures from his pubco, including rising rents and high supply costs. Ultimately, the imbalance between his achievements and the terms of his lease led to eviction, forcing him to confront the systemic issues in the tied pub model.
Advocacy Through the Fair Pint Campaign
In 2008, Mark co-founded the Fair Pint Campaign, a movement dedicated to addressing the inequalities of tied leases. The campaign advocated for fairer terms for publicans and worked to end exploitative practices in the sector.
The campaign’s efforts contributed to the creation of the 2016 Pub Code, a legal framework intended to ensure tied tenants would be “no worse off” than those operating free-of-tie pubs. However, while the code introduced some protections, Mark argues it didn’t go far enough in addressing systemic issues.
“The pub tie can work, but only when the relationship between tenant and landlord is equitable,” Mark explains. “Unfortunately, too often, the scales are tipped against tenants, making it almost impossible for them to succeed.”
When the Pub Tie Works
It’s important to acknowledge that not all experiences with tied leases are negative. For some publicans, the support offered by pubcos—such as training, marketing assistance, and established supply chains—can provide a valuable foundation for building a successful business.
In cases where pubcos prioritise the success of their tenants, the model can foster long-term relationships and thriving pubs. For example, some pubcos reinvest in their properties, offer competitive beer prices, and provide flexible terms to help tenants succeed. These partnerships demonstrate that the pub tie can work when fairness and collaboration are at the forefront.
The People’s Pub Partnership: A Vision for the Future
Mark’s latest endeavour, the People’s Pub Partnership (PPP), seeks to reimagine the pub sector. This socially conscious initiative aims to create a pub company that prioritises community, sustainability, and fairness.
The PPP’s vision includes retrofitting pubs to modern standards, focusing on local sourcing, and creating spaces that serve their communities. By moving away from restrictive practices, the PPP seeks to empower publicans while preserving the cultural and social value of pubs.
“A pub is so much more than a business,” Mark asserts. “It’s a place of connection, belonging, and community. To thrive, pubs need investment, not just in bricks and mortar but in the people who make them special.”
The Way Forward: Striking a Balance
The conversation around the pub tie is complex. While it provides opportunities for some, it can be a trap for others. The challenge lies in creating a system that works for everyone—a balance where pubcos can sustain their operations without overburdening tenants.
Mark’s work, from the Fair Pint Campaign to the People’s Pub Partnership, highlights the need for ongoing reform. His vision of a more equitable, community-focused pub sector offers hope for the future, ensuring that pubs remain vibrant, thriving spaces for generations to come.
Join the Movement
Mark Dodds’ journey is a testament to resilience and the power of advocacy. If you share his vision for a fairer, more sustainable pub sector, connect with him on LinkedIn or visit www.peoplespubpartnership.co.uk.
The pub is a cornerstone of British culture. By addressing the challenges of the pub tie and championing innovative solutions, we can ensure its legacy endures for years to come.
