Greene King has revealed its intention to launch 30 new franchise pubs in the coming year. The company recently achieved a significant milestone by reaching 100 franchise Hive and Nest concept pubs.
In the previous year, Greene King Pub Partners successfully introduced 30 new franchise pubs, marking its entry into the Scottish market under the Belhaven brand for the first time. Looking ahead to 2026, the company is set to expand its franchise activities into Wales and the Southwest of England with a series of new establishments.
Among the confirmed locations for the upcoming year are Millwrights in Aylesbury, The Freemasons Arms in Wigan, and The Flag Inn in Egerton. Notable franchise openings in 2025 included The Tarbet in Edinburgh, the first Greene King franchise pub in Scotland following a £285,000 renovation.
Penelope Bruce, Director of Pub Partners Franchise Operations, expressed excitement over reaching the milestone of 100 franchise pubs. She highlighted the continuous growth of their franchise offerings since launching their first Hive Pub over four years ago.
Greene King Pub Partners Managing Director, Dan Robinson, commended the ongoing expansion of their franchise business, which complements their existing successful leased and tenanted pub operations. Additionally, as part of a promotional campaign, Greene King offered free pints of Guinness last weekend to coincide with the start of the Six Nations rugby tournament.
To claim a free pint, patrons were required to book a table for any Six Nations game on February 7 through the Greene King website. The offer was available at various Greene King sports pubs, including Flaming Grill, Hungry Horse, and Belhaven, as part of the Fans Reunited campaign featuring Rugby World Cup champions Martin Johnson and Jason Robinson.
Zoe Bowley, Managing Director for Greene King pubs, emphasized the role of sport and the pub atmosphere in fostering connections among people. The Fans Reunited initiative aims to bring old friends together over a pint, coinciding with the Guinness Six Nations tournament and encouraging reminiscence and camaraderie.