Brewery and pub owner, Heineken is reportedly looking to dispose of around 150 pubs across the UK from its Star Pubs and Bars leasing subsidiary. The value of this sale could be around £60m.
The company acquired 2,000 Punch Taverns pubs two years ago for £300m amid concerns the merger could lead to reduced competition and consumer choice in some places. Heineken had then it would sell pubs in around 30 areas around the UK to ease concerns.
Ben Wilkinson, Campaing for Real Ale (CAMRA) national director, said, 'Having decided to dispose of these pubs, we welcome Heineken's responsible decision to market them as going concerns and seek a different pub operator to take them on.
'Most important though will be the intention of the purchaser, and local communities deserve rapid assurances from any new operator that they are committed to the future of these pubs rather than asset stripping.
'Academic research shows local pubs help people live happier lives, have more close friends, and stay more connected with their communities.
'It's essential that these pubs, many of which are at the heart of their local area, are given a fair chance to thrive under new ownership.'